Moray Reach Out Garden

We’re sharing this update from the Moray Reach Out newsletter and how their new garden space is taking shape…

A Garden created for accessibility and biodiversity

MRO Garden

We’re excited to announce that the MRO Garden (Stage 2) is almost complete! Planting took place in late November, made possible thanks to funding from Moray CAN, which supported biodiversity and the planting of native species. While there is still some hedging to be planted and a bit of fencing to finish in early 2025, the transformation of the space from a rough landscape into a wheelchair-accessible garden has been a major achievement.

A huge thank you to GC Smallworks Ltd for their outstanding work, and to our Project Manager, Jon Reeves, for his careful planning and oversight of this fantastic project.

Our General Manager, Shona, successfully applied for a grant/loan through Social Investment Scotland, which covered both the building and garden improvements. This included essential upgrades like insulation, the installation of air-source heating/air conditioning on the second floor, and the development of the accessible garden.

The plants and trees chosen for the garden aim to boost biodiversity. We look forward to seeing the garden flourish and provide a richer habitat for wildlife. Plants and shrubs along the pathways will provide nectar and foliage for insects, while seeds and berries will support garden and farmland birds. Small trees like Cherry, Rowan, and Crab Apple have been added to further enhance the habitat and wildlife opportunities.

In the lower area (Stage 3), we still have Sycamores and the seasonal snowdrops, bluebells, and daffodils. There is also scope for more planting, including bulbs and herbs, as well as the development of workbenches for potting—the ideas keep flowing!

Spending time outdoors and connecting with nature is vital for our mental wellbeing, and we can’t wait to invite you to experience the garden during our future open days and events. Stay tuned!