In between Howard Street, Cowley and Boundary Brook Lane, Cowley, lies a small strip of land that is well used by the community providing access to Lark Rise School, cut through to Florence Park and short cut to the local shops and access to the City Centre.
Since the spring 2023 a few volunteers have planted, pruned and watered an array of plants and flowers that have transformed the area into a vibrant, uplifting and welcoming space that is being enjoyed by old and young in the community.
It has been nothing short of miraculous how this small space has affected so many people and I quote, “brightened their day”, “lifted their spirits”, “made them smile” and “improved their mental health”. This small area has inspired people to plant in their own gardens/containers and take an interest in what’s growing and how they can get involved.
It was decided to crowdfund to paint a mural on the side of a 3 storey house that borders the alleyway. Within one month the funds were raised and the work was undertaken by “Lisa made it” a local artist who was thrilled to be part of the project.
On the 28th October 2023 the mural was unveiled to a crowd of over 200 supporters. Since then we have gained significant interest in how the impact of gardening made such a difference to our community. An area with a bad reputation is now officially named “Flower Lane”. We made history.
