NEIGHBOURS of an “eyesore” community allotment are being urged to get involved and use it.

The facility at Lever Park Special School has now opened, despite a planning blunder causing a row with nearby residents.

Planning permission had been granted to build the allotment, along with two storage cabins and three polytunnels.

But the school sited two portable buildings and two polytunnels in the wrong place, provoking complaints from residents who said they were too close to their homes.

Carole Darbyshire, special educational needs project manager and school counsellor, said: “It is a fantastic facility.

We have a well established group of people using it, which is very encouraging. Now we want more people to come and use it — anyone including families or those who do not have a garden.

“We have professional advice available to help them create raised beds and grow herbs, plants— anything they want.”

Lever Park Special School is for children who have social, emotional and behavioural issues.

Pupils have played a vital part in developing the allotment area.

They now want to create a striking pergola and have been working with the community at each stage.

This has helped young people develop their skills and confidence for when they leave school.

Pupil Tim Pope, aged 15, said: “I like the allotment, it is really good.

“I am learning new skills and enjoying talking to people. I like being outside.”

Mrs Darbyshire said: “It is a chance for the children to reconnect with their community.

“They are having to negotiate and work as part of team with different members of the society they live in.

“They have contributed to something that will be here for the community for many years to come.”

Fruit, vegetables and herbs are already growing on the allotment, which was created thanks to £40,000 National Lottery Local Food funding.

Anyone interested in having a patch should contact the school on 01204 332666.

An open day is being held on Saturday, July 16.