Grow

Let's Grow Together

The benefits of growing your own food are many, from improved mental health to reduced carbon footprints and saving money to meeting new friends. Food is one thing that unites us all and improving our relationship with food can be transformative.

In 2021 the Council agreed a Food Growing Strategy called Let's Grow Together, which recognises the importance of sustainable community food growing and the many benefits gained by doing so.

If you would like to take part in our community initiatives across the borough please contact us on 0300 013 3333 or email andparks@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Allotments

Community allotments can provide several benefits to individuals, such as the opportunity to produce a wide range of relatively inexpensive healthy vegetables, whilst at the same time providing physical exercise in the outdoors. It can create the opportunity to make new friends and provide the chance to socialise with others who enjoy a similar rewarding pastime.

The benefits of having your own allotment:

• Pleasure of seeing what you sow grow to maturity
• Exercise and a healthier lifestyle
• Fresh air, peace and quiet
• Opportunity to meet new friends
• Eat your own fresh and organic produce

Council has one allotment site in Bangor. To join the waiting list please contact us on 0300 013 3333 or email andparks@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Starting a School Growing Club

Schools Growing Clubs are a great opportunity for schools to promote healthier eating and drinking as well as a deeper understanding of sustainable food issues. Pupils and teachers will be inspired to work together in their outside space, learn gardening skills for life and learn to take care of their local environment. Research suggests schools taking part benefit through happier children spending more of their time outside.

Ards and North Down Borough Council is committed to offering guidance and support to schools through the 'Let's Grow Together Strategy'. We want to assist schools to set-up successful growing areas, developing a positive link with the wider Ards and North Down in Bloom initiative. This Growing Clubs guidance gives practical advice on setting up or improving an existing gardening club in your school.

Find out more about about Schools Growing Clubs, download the booklet below.

You can also contact the Parks Service (t: 0300 013 3333 or e: andparks@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk) for help or advice at any time.