To transform an used piece of land into a social growing area where members of the community can volunteer and work together to produce fresh herbs and veg for free distribution to the local community
Estimated Cost
£7,000
LDCI is working on delivering the outcomes of Lairg's Local Place Plan. Community growing was an emergent priority from the consultations held ahead of writing Lairg’s Local Plan and there is a desire for more disused spaces in Lairg to be turned over to community growing and green spaces. We are working in partnership with Veg on the Edge, a growing group based in Lairg, and would like to transform the unused piece of land into a community garden and outdoor third space.
Our main objective is to provide a social growing area where members of the community can volunteer and work together to produce fresh herbs and veg for free distribution to the local community via a ‘Veg Shed’ on site. The site will be complemented by growing activities in the nearby polytunnel where more fruit, veg and herbs are being grown.
The land will be considerately landscaped to include raised growing beds, seating areas and herb gardens. Perennial herbs and low maintenance planting will be added.
The garden will also provide an outdoor social area, or ‘third space’. Third spaces are defined as social environments outside of the home (first place) and work (second place). Key characteristics of third spaces are:
Neutrality: You have no obligation to be there or perform a specific role.
Accessibility: They are welcoming, inexpensive (or free), and usually open to anyone.
Conversation focus: The primary activity is socializing and connecting with others, both known and unknown.
“Regulars”: They foster a sense of belonging through familiar faces and connections.
Third spaces help with community building, tackling social isolation, and supporting civic engagement by providing spaces for free association.
Community support for additional green spaces and gardens in Lairg was highlighted as an environmental priority within Lairg’s Local Place Plan as evidenced at the community workshops and consultations ahead of drafting the plan.
“Alongside our natural environment are community green spaces including play parks, playing fields and land for community events. These should be protected and enhanced to deliver health, wellbeing, and physical benefits. Opportunities for community gardens at Ord Place and Laundry Road should be explored to allow for community food production” Lairg Local Place Plan 2025-2030
After LDCI raised the funds and project managed the Ferrycroft Play Park build, Ord Place play park is no longer used by the community as they now favour the new play park at Ferrycroft. It is now a visually unappealing area in a prominent position at the village entrance. Additionally, the Highland Council will no longer maintain the amenities within the play park as their maintenance services have transferred to the park at Ferrycroft. Creating a community garden and third space here will enhance the area providing a well-kempt, useful, and productive space where people can come together and benefit from fresh produce grown within the village.
LDCI has submitted an asset transfer request to the Highland Council for a long-term lease of the land at Ord Place.
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