Food programme helps green up waste ground

Derelict site transformed into thriving green space for community.

A derelict site in Weoley Castle has been transformed into a multi-functional community food growing space, thanks to Mondelēz International’s Health for Life programme.

Funded by the Mondelēz International Foundation and delivered by The Conservation Volunteers, the Green Meadow Road Community food growing space has gone from strength to strength since work began on the overgrown site two years ago, on land provided by Bournville Village Trust.

Celebrating its two year anniversary this month, volunteers are now putting the finishing touches to the space, including the creation of a wheelchair accessible growing area, a wildlife area and pond, a polytunnel, and a large growing area where residents can plant and harvest their own fruit and vegetables.

To mark the occasion, Mondelēz International and TCV staff joined local volunteers on Friday 28th August to celebrate their achievements and find out how they use the space to grow fresh fruit and veg.

Phil Greenhalgh, UK managing director at Mondelēz International, said: “Two years ago, I visited Green Meadow and worked alongside colleagues to clear the site as part of our Global Volunteer Month programme. It is great to be back here again and see how the space has been transformed.

“I have no doubt this is just the beginning of a wonderful space which will benefit the local community for years to come.”

Over the last two years, Green Meadow has welcomed over 400 volunteers from the surrounding area as well as support from Mondelēz International employees. The space also boasts a large cabin which holds community activities and weekly Green Gym sessions for volunteers to keep active. It is just one of 11 Health for Life spaces located across South Birmingham designed to support local families to live healthier lifestyles for generations to come.

Luke Hickman, who suffers from mild cerebral palsy, has taken part in weekly Green Gym sessions since October 2013.

He said: “Being part of the Green Gym sessions has increased my strength and fitness in a fun environment. I really feel I play a larger part in my community thanks to the support of the team at TCV and Health for Life.”

TCV offers a range of activities through the Health for Life programme to involve individuals and community groups in Weoley Castle, Northfield, Kings Norton, Longbridge and Bournville. For further information, visit: www.tcv.org.uk/greengym