Greening Ethelred

When Ethelred residents asked for more gardening on the estate, we carried out a consultation process and residents chose to partner with Progress for the estate’s green spaces. Here, we ask Progress founder Simon Ghartey about his plans for greening Ethelred.  
 
What makes Progress a good partner for Ethelred? 
Our team has worked with the Ethelred community on past initiatives like creating food-growing spaces and public art. We are so eager to get back on the estate and help realise the community’s vision to take this greening work to another level. 

Who will be involved? 
Simon and the Progress team: a collective of skilled trades people, local youngsters and creatives. We will also bring along volunteers from various organisations. 

What will you be doing? 
We talked with the community during the bidding process and aim to learn more about their wants and needs. We’ll also tidy up existing areas, freshen the estate up seasonally, and encourage residents to come and get their hands dirty. 

How do you see the open spaces changing? 
We see them being revamped to fit the community vision as places to work together, relax and find peace. I hope they can be areas that people feel proud of, that support food growth and represent beauty for everyone, from decorative planting to community art. 

Who can take part? 
Absolutely everyone. We will have tasks, from the extremely light to the slightly more demanding, for anyone who wants to join in. 

What would you like to say to residents? 
This is for you. Your vision is what counts. Come and get involved in whatever way you like, however much or little you can do. It would be great to see you. 

How can we find out more?  
Community gardening workshops are on Fridays, 9.30 - 4.30pm. Meet at Pory Hall, or for more details get in touch with Simon Ghartey:  
simon@thisisprogress.org.uk 
07533076334  
Insta: @progresslondon 
Find us online at www.thisisprogress.org.uk/