Oldham's Mayor, Councillor Eddie Moores, officially opened a new wellbeing garden at Mahdlo Youth Zone on Tuesday 28 April, transforming a previously underused area into a vibrant outdoor space for young people. Accompanied by the Lady Mayoress, Kath Moores, he cut the ribbon to mark the completion of the project.

The garden has been specifically designed to help young members spend more time outdoors, connect with nature and learn practical skills. It will host activities including growing fruit and vegetables, outdoor learning sessions and group work aimed at improving wellbeing and confidence. The space offers a calm retreat where young people can build skills and support one another.

The project was funded and built by The Casey Group, a founding patron of Mahdlo Youth Zone. It marks the Youth Zone's 15th year of serving Oldham's young people and has turned an underused site into a valuable community asset.

In a heartwarming development, one of the contractors who helped construct the garden was so inspired by the work Mahdlo does that he has since returned as a regular volunteer. This story of community connection demonstrates how collaborative projects can bring people together and strengthen the bonds within Oldham.

Lucy Lees, Chief Executive Officer of Mahdlo Youth Zone, said: “As we celebrate Mahdlo’s 15th anniversary, it feels significant to open this new garden which represents growth in opportunity, wellbeing and connection for our young people. We are so grateful to The Casey Group for making this project possible, and to the Mayor for officially opening it today. I’m so pleased to hear that a builder who helped create the garden has seen the work we do at Mahdlo and has been inspired to return as a volunteer. This shows how people and organisations across Oldham can come together to support our young people.”

John Walmsley, Social Impact Executive at The Casey Group, added: “We’re proud to support Mahdlo Youth Zone with the creation of this new outdoor space, transforming an underused area into something that young people can truly benefit from. This project reflects our commitment to Improving Lives in Oldham, not through words, but through meaningful, lasting action. By working in partnership with organisations like Mahdlo, we’re helping to create safe, inclusive environments where young people can connect, grow, and feel part of their community.”

The addition of the wellbeing garden is the latest milestone in Mahdlo Youth Zone's mission to provide safe, inspiring spaces for the young people of Oldham. The Youth Zone continues to offer a wide range of activities and support, thanks to partnerships with local businesses and the dedication of volunteers. The garden stands as a physical reminder of what can be achieved when the community works together to invest in the next generation.