07/06/2010 : Inner city residents plant seeds of change

Residents of a Brent Council housing estate in Kilburn are the first to take part in a pilot project to grow their own food.

Fiveways Tenants' and Residents' Association is made up of five estates in Kilburn which are managed by Brent Housing Partnership (BHP). The residents voted in favour of being part of a groundbreaking project which aims to get local people to grow their own food and make a positive impact on the environment.

Community group, Transition Town Kensal to Kilburn (TTK2K), launched this project as part of its many initiatives to encourage local people to grow their own fruit and vegetables. TTK2K is a group of local people based in Brent taking action to green the area by growing and picking local fruit, keeping bees and building community spirit.

The project is funded by the Neighbourhood Working Fund, and BHP is the first housing provider to get involved in the scheme. 

Residents of Fiveways were very keen to get involved. The fruit and vegetables were planted at the end of May and included items like pak choi, spinach, brussel sprouts and strawberries. The residents and their children were very enthusiastic and everyone joined in with the planting. From gardeners to busy mums to city professional, everyone did their part in making a change for the better.

TTK2K provided all the equipment, seeds and expert gardening advice. It was a team effort as members from TTK2K worked alongside the residents to kickstart this pioneering venture. All food that is grown is for use by the residents and is completely free of charge.

David Young, Committee Member of TTK2K said: "The idea is to start small and let it grow. The great thing about the Fiveways allotment is that people are growing food together and not just for themselves.

"It's important to remember that food comes from the land before it comes from a shop, even in a city. Growing food for yourself and your neighbours is a way to remember that."

Maureen Coughlin, Chairs of Fiveways Tenants' and Reisdents' Association said: "This is a brilliant project as it is drawing the community together. It has enabled residents of all ages to meet each other and work together which has formed strong bonds. The children have been very excited about watching their plants grow; it has taught them a great deal about nurturing and caring. The project has generated a lot of interest in the area and we are hoping that other people will begin growing their own food as well."

If this pilot project goes well, it will be extended and may become a long-term enterprise. So watch this space!