Aims & objectives

Increasing awareness

The outdoor space at Dover Place has, for many decades, provided a communal, shared garden for the enjoyment of all residents. We are aware that, with no means of informing new residents, many peope dont know that the garden is available for their enjoyment. Increasing awareness of, and access to, the garden could be beneficial both for residents and for the development of the garden.

Widening participation & usage

We encourage use of all areas of the garden and the development of the space to provide interest & activities for neighbours of all ages. We have, in our shared outdoor space, the opportunity to establish a garden with broad appeal: to the sun worshippers, flower enthusiasts and wildlife lovers, to the vegetable growers and the children who inhabit and visit Dover Place.

Our community

Discussion with those presently using the garden area suggests that a formal consultation could build on the community spirit here at Dover Place. Thereafter, greater participation & use of the garden would cement this ethos. With a little TLC, the garden could form a delightful backdrop for a summer garden party, bringing people together around a common interest.

Promoting health & wellbeing

Both through greater neighbourliness and time spent outdoors per se, participation in the development & use of our surroundings would support mental & physical health. With broad participation, the garden could evolve to provide for a range of interests, supporting the wellbeing of residents young & old.

A habitat for wildlife

We’re fortunate to enjoy a variety of wildlife here at Dover Place. The pond attracts common newts throughout the summer and, cleaned & cleared of debris, is now used by birds throughout the day. Recently added birdboxes have been occupied by robins, blue tits & coal tits. The treescape is a gymnasium for grey squirrels, while nocturnal visitors include bats & foxes. Evolution of the garden would continue to prioritise wildlife and, by expanding the variety of plants & trees, encourage greater diversity.

Greater plant & arboricultural diversity

We’ve sought to introduce a greater variety of shrubs, herbs & flowers over recent years, however, the garden is largely surrounded by tall, unmanaged sycamores. In many instances, less pervasive species have been – and continue to be – overwhelmed by the sycamores. Other tree species have failed to flourish, resulting in one or two poor specimens. Development of the garden might include a greater focus on the management of our large trees, to allow successful introduction of alternative species. This would increase diversity, open up sightlines, provide visual interest and develop a more dynamic habitat for wildlife.

Our neighbours

Actions in our garden affect not only residents of Dover Place, but also our neighbours below at Meridian Mews. We encourage consultation with our neighbours to ensure that the views of all stakeholders are considered.

Our collective legacy for future generations

Dover Place was mostly constructed in the 1860s and has stood – slightly wonky in some areas – ever since. Generations have come & gone and this place will almost certainly outlive us too. We are but stewards of our environment and our action (or inaction) determines what is left for future generations. Many of the beautiful parks & gardens around Clifton were developed by the Victorians & Edwardians and we now enjoy their mature beauty & diversity. We have an opportunity to improve this space for the benefit of both current and future residents.