BUTE Cottage Nursery has invited local residents to plant bulbs in its new community garden.

The land adjacent to the nursery is owned by the Vale of Glamorgan Council education service and has been left open for community use for a number of years, but in 2011 the school and Gwyrddio Penarth Greening (GPG) group were given permission to develop the site with the wider community for joint school and community use

The school and GPG have recently been awarded funding through a Welsh Government Tidy Towns grant, so work can now proceed with planting the garden with the hope that the project will be completed by March 2015.

Jo Bryan, head teacher at Bute Cottage Nursery, said:

"The development plan is in two phases:

"Phase one involved the planting of an orchard and wildflower area which was completed in the summer term 2014. The 10 native fruit trees were sponsored by local groups and businesses. The children also planted pollinator plants outside the Nursery perimeter fence, provided through a grant from Tidy Wales. To mark the World War I centenary the children and parents sowed poppy seeds in the wildflower area, and this will continue annually. Picnic benches have also been provided by the school, and an area for garden composting has been established. Phase one has now been completed."

She added: "Phase two will involve installing raised beds for community groups to plant flowers and vegetables with paths ensuring wheelchair users can access both planting beds and the garden.

"There will also be a grassed area for families to play in, hopefully with some twmps to run or roll down. The Woodland Trust have also provided a variety of trees to encourage birds and wildlife which will form a small copse. A bin, benches and seating will be installed, benches sponsored by Wasons of Penarth and BATS Penarth.

"There will be a small hard core area for parking for school visitors and the local charity Tools with a Mission. There will also be an open area near the parking. Fencing and signage are also in phase two of the project.

"As stated, this will be a Community garden for open community use, but in line with other park areas it will be locked overnight; keyholders will be members of the local community."

She added: "Every day in the week beginning November 24 we will be planting spring bulbs in the garden with parents and children. If anyone in the Community would like to help plant or support in any way they are most welcome – please ring the school for details 029 2070 2975

The school and GPG welcome any ideas and support from businesses or members of the community. Please contact us at ButecottNS@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk or at penarth@gmail.com