Failsworth land transformed as community garden takes shape
A former garage site in Failsworth has been transformed into a community garden by the Day Drive Project Group, with support from First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO), the National Trust, and Northern Lily. The garden, now in its first year, features crops like artichoke, beetroot, garlic, and potatoes, and includes infrastructure such as a shed, polytunnel, and seating area. The project aims to provide a space for food production, skill development, and community bonding. Future plans include more raised beds, a hydroponic system, and additions to support local wildlife.
Day Drive Project Group Celebrates First Year of Community Garden Transformation
Artichokes, beetroot, garlic and potatoes will soon be harvested from a 750 square metre former garage site in Failsworth that volunteers transformed into a thriving community garden over the past year.
The Day Drive Project Group, supported by First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO), has converted the unused land into a food-producing initiative complete with a shed, rainwater collection containers, a polytunnel, potting tables, raised beds and a seating area. Weekly community gardening sessions now bring residents together to grow produce and share skills.
FCHO granted the group a three-year lease on the land in 2024 and provided £5,000 in funding as part of its community commitment. Additional support came from the National Trust and local social enterprise Northern Lily, whose contributions helped volunteers clear the site and build the infrastructure needed for sustainable growing.
“Day Drive has made huge progress over the last 12 months as volunteers have made something special from this unused piece of land,” said David Wrigley, FCHO head of neighbourhood care. “By transforming it, the community is being supported by us and our partners to create a space for neighbours to grow food, learn new skills and support each other.”
Volunteer Asaf Efraim praised the collaborative effort: “It has been an amazing transformation, with lots of hard work, dedication, and teamwork. We are grateful for the support from First Choice Homes and Northern Lily, who have helped us move this project forward.”
Plans for the coming months include installing additional raised beds, planters and a hydroponic system. The group will also enhance the site’s biodiversity by planting flowers and fruit trees while adding bird feeders, bug hotels and bird houses to support local wildlife.
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