A ONCE- OVERLOOKED patch of land at Struan Lodge in Dunoon has been transformed into a flourishing community garden, and locals are invited to see the transformation for themselves at a special open day on Saturday, May 3.
The project, spearheaded by an enthusiastic team of volunteers from the Dunoon Community Development Trust, has turned the grounds of the Struan Lodge Residential and Day Care Centre into a shared, sustainable food-growing haven.
Over the past year, volunteers have rolled up their sleeves to install two poly tunnels, construct a tea room and toilet for volunteers, and build ten vegetable beds, winding pathways, herbaceous borders and wildflower zones.
Now named Struan Green Haven, the once-unused space is becoming a vibrant hub for growing vegetables, herbs and fruit, with the added bonus of floral beauty for residents and day visitors to enjoy.
“This community-led approach is especially valuable in times of uncertainty, including around food security,” explained Martin Gerrish, lead volunteer at Struan Green Haven.
“We’re proud that the garden will supply fresh, locally grown produce to Struan Lodge’s kitchen, our volunteers, and the wider community. We also hope to offer produce for sale at the garden and at local markets throughout the summer.”
The Open Day will give visitors the chance to tour the garden with volunteers, enjoy refreshments prepared by the Struan Lodge kitchen team, and browse a table top sale – with all proceeds going towards the continued development of the garden. Everyone is warmly welcome to attend.
This transformation wouldn’t have been possible without funding from Argyll and Bute Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund – Vibrant and Living Spaces Fund, as well as ongoing support from local groups including ASIST, Dunoon Grammar School Learning Centre and Film Club, The Help Project, and UHI Argyll horticulture students.
Due to limited parking at Struan Lodge, visitors are kindly asked to park at Dunoon Stadium and follow the path past the skate park to Sanderson Drive, where the garden entrance is located.
The space will be open on Saturday, May 3 from 10am to 3pm.
