A hidden gem in Warrington town centre, the Culture Warrington and Golden Square’s Sky Garden, has recently received two prestigious awards for its positive impact on the community.
The Sky Garden, located on the top floor of a multistorey car park, has been open to the public for the past two years during Golden Square’s regular opening hours. This secret garden was awarded Gold at the International Green Apple Environment Awards, which saw over 1,200 entries from around the world. The project was recognized in the Retail Community Partnerships category for its contribution to schools, community groups, and families through the provision of fresh produce.
In addition to this accolade, the Sky Garden was also certified as ‘thriving’ by the RHS in the Britain in Bloom: It’s Your Neighbourhood Awards North West. This recognition reflects the efforts of Culture Warrington in collaborating with volunteers to organize community events throughout the year.
Amanda Moor, Culture Warrington’s education and sustainability officer, expressed her delight at the recognition the Sky Garden has received. She emphasized that while the awards are an added bonus, the true value lies in the community’s appreciation of the garden and the work being done there. Moor highlighted the transformation of the once barren concrete patch into a biodiverse space that serves as a living addition to Warrington Museum’s natural history offerings.
The Sky Garden has become a hub for wellbeing and educational projects, showcasing the potential of a small green space in fostering community engagement. Moor looks forward to planning future activities for the garden and building on its success in the coming year.
The success of the Sky Garden is a testament to the power of community partnerships and volunteer efforts in creating spaces that benefit the environment and the people who interact with them. As the garden continues to thrive and evolve, it serves as a reminder of the positive impact that sustainable projects can have on local communities. Through initiatives like the Sky Garden, Warrington is setting an example for other cities looking to enhance their urban environments and promote community well-being.
