23 May 2017

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A new community “mini park” in Linwood is creating a buzz, after months of community work to develop the transitional community space.

Christchurch City Council Head of Urban Design, Regeneration and Heritage Carolyn Ingles said the space was a great example of how the Council had trialled a different approach to enable a community delivered project.

“The Urban Regeneration team entered a partnership with Greening the Rubble to deliver a temporary community space within Linwood Village. Greening the Rubble teamed up with local community group Te Whare Roimata to run a consultation and ask Linwood locals what sort of space they would like.

“The community wanted a simple place to gather, to play, to eat, to chat, and to enjoy. Greening the Rubble came up with some concepts and approached owners of vacant land within Linwood village.”

With the help of Te Whare Romata, they activated a site along Stanmore Road. Several working bees were co-ordinated with the City Mission where volunteers helped to clear and landscape the space.

“The different components of the mini park were designed to be modular and easily movable when the land is ready to be developed. The New Brighton Menz Shed assisted with the construction of planters and the space also includes several self-wicking planters designed to require less watering, an orange picket fence, and a small stage with seating.”

The mini park was officially opened with a crowd of around 50 people and a celebration that included a blessing, speeches, food, garden planting, and music.

Greening the Rubble spokesperson Jane Ash said local people were genuinely glad to see something positive happening on a central piece of land in the village.

“It's also a good outlet for those who want to be proactive in their neighbourhood and work alongside other like-minded people. When we are active on site, people walk past and see people they know or take an interest because it's something different.

“There has been a buzz of excitement in the community as the project quickly developed on site. Many people came to share in the opening (too many to fit!) which is a good sign that there is general support and interest in the project,” Ms Ash said.