Residents sow seeds for future of council houses

Residents in Johnson Fold marked the transfer by planting a tree, which will form a vital part of a regeneration scheme on a piece of derelict and misused piece of land.

The tree planting ceremony which was held in Shackleton Grove, will see the land transformed into a natural space for community use.

Jim Higham, Bolton at Home’s director of technical services, planted a double cherry tree with members of the local community and project partners — Johnson Fold Residents’ Association, local training charity BoltonWISE and West Bolton Neighbourhood Team.

The project has been part funded by Bolton at Home’s Neighbourhood Management Service, which has also helped neighbours apply for further funding from the Big Lottery Fund. Plans for the completed project include planting wildflowers, fruiting trees, and resurfacing of a public footpath.

Mr Higham said: “We’re very proud of the work that’s being carried out at Shackleton Grove.

“Our partners and members of the local community have been working together to turn an overgrown area that att-racted fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour into an attractive natural space that can be enjoyed by all.”

“The tree planting is a small nod to Bolton at Home’s recent transition to a registered housing provider, which will help us to improve homes and estates, benefiting our customers.”

Steve Bottrill, general manager of BoltonWISE, added: “We’re delighted to help deliver the Shackleton Grove project, through which we’ve been able to provide work experience and training to 12 local people.

“They have worked alongside our experienced trades people, gaining valuable skills that have significantly improved their career prospects.

And Irene Preston, chairman of Johnson Fold Residents Association, said: “The sight has gone from a derelict eyesore to an attractive, landscaped area.

“It has really opened up the estate and we hope residents will take pride in it.”