The forecast is bright for Sholing

Thanks to over £800,000 of Decent Neighbourhoods funding, the local neighbourhood has been totally transformed with resurfaced car parks and footpaths, new trees and plants, revamped bin stores and enclosed gardens which provide a safe place for residents to sit and relax, and for children to play.

These new outdoor areas are already proving a valuable amenity for residents living in flats without a garden of their own, as local tenant Emma explains: “I have lived here for many years, and I’ve never seen so many people enjoying spending time outdoors until now. The new garden areas have made a huge difference to our quality of life. It’s just great to see the kids coming home from school and wanting to play out in the new garden area instead of just sitting in front of the TV. Neighbours are coming together to organise barbecues and people of all ages are just generally enjoying spending time together outdoors in the fresh air. We’re all looking forward to a fantastic summer in our new garden!”

The idea to create shared gardens and improve the look of the area came from the local community, after residents were asked for ideas to improve their neighbourhood. Local people were consulted throughout the project which was designed in partnership with the Landscape Team at Hampshire County Council. After seven months of work, the finished result was officially unveiled in June when local residents came together for a celebration event with council staff and contractors to mark the completion of a successful project.

This is the latest Decent Neighbourhoods initiative in the city to fund projects that improve the look and safety of council neighbourhoods. Residents are involved in helping to decide how Decent Neighbourhoods funding is spent to enhance their communities and previous projects have included community gardens, car parking and community artwork.