29 February 2008
Mayor of Caerphilly County Borough, Cllr. Allen Williams has officially opened a new sensory garden for people with learning disabilities at Markham Resource Centre.
The Groundwork Trust has transformed the resource centre's garden into an inviting, stimulating area that will be enjoyed by service users and members of the local community. Children from Markham Primary School have been involved in the project from the start, meeting service users and developing the garden.
Each section of the garden was inspired by the 5 senses: sight, sound, smell, touch and taste. Colourful flowers will provide a vibrant display; chimes hanging from wooden beams will jingle in the breeze; herbs have been planted that will give off a subtle scent; shrubs of unusual textures will feel strange to touch; and home-grown fruit and vegetables will be picked from the garden later in the year.
Studies have shown that some people with learning disabilities benefit greatly from this type of stimulating environment.
Over the past few years, the Groundwork Trust has been involved in a number of projects with the centre. An allotment area has been developed, along with an impressive 'environmentally friendly' greenhouse/workshop area, made using old plastic bottles.
Speaking at the event, Mayor of Caerphilly County Borough, Cllr Allen Williams, said:
"Markham Resource Centre is a marvellous facility. The good work that goes on here every day will now flourish as a result of this wonderful new garden. It's an excellent way of bringing the community together - from the young children at Markham Primary School, right through to the older people from the local community."
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