Gatty Growing Project: Bringing New Life to a Much Loved Community Space

Hyndburn Green Spaces Forum (HGSF) and Hyndburn Borough Council (HBC) are proud to be supporting two fantastic local community groups as they begin an exciting redevelopment of the community growing areas behind Gatty Park.

Although the site already has polytunnels in place, the photos tell the story — the tunnels are currently without their protective skin, leaving the space exposed to the elements and unable to function as a safe, weatherproof growing environment. That’s about to change.

Laying the Foundations Together

The first step for Incredible Edibles Accrington and CSNW Gatty Growers has been to work closely with the HBC Parks Department and HGSF to form a dedicated working group. Together, they’ve been developing a shared vision and practical plan for how the site can be transformed into a thriving, accessible community growing hub.

Securing the Future of the Site

HGSF has taken the lead on funding bids and applications, successfully securing the resources needed to:

• Fully re skin the polytunnels across the site

• Equip the growing area with essential tools, materials, and infrastructure

• Create a safe, welcoming space where local people can learn, grow, and enjoy the benefits of horticulture

These improvements will pave the way for both community groups to get growing again — supporting food education, wellbeing, social connection, and hands on learning for volunteers and residents alike.

A Huge Thank You to The Funders

This project simply wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our funders.

We are deeply grateful to: National Lottery Awards for All; Hyndburn Borough Council; Warburtons; Oswaldtwistle Sick Poor Fund.

Incredible Edibles Accrington and CSNW Gatty Growers have also secured funding from the Windfall Fund & National Gardens Scheme.

Their contributions are helping to bring the Gatty Growing Project to life and ensure the site can flourish for years to come

Follow the Journey

This is just the beginning. Over the coming months, the Gatty Growing Project will start to take shape on the ground, and we’ll be sharing updates, photos, and stories as the site comes back to life.

Keep an eye out for progress as Incredible Edibles Accrington and CSNW Gatty Growers transform this space into a vibrant, productive community asset once more.