Westminster council introduce greening initiative for residents to plant bulbs across their estates

Residents have been stepping forward to plant bulbs across their estates as part of a new greening initiative from Westminster city council.

More than 1,000 bulbs are being planted on estates across Westminster and people of all ages have been taking part.

“Whatever their age, background or gardening prowess, all residents are welcome to dig in and help make their estates an even better place to live,” said a council spokesman.

Children are being encouraged to get involved, too, and to take the chance to learn about nature.

Councillor Andrew Smith, Westminster city council’s cabinet member for housing services, said: “Community is at the heart of our services, which is why we want local people to help us transform our estates into even more beautiful and welcoming green spaces.

“There is a lot of work to do over the next few weeks to get all 1,000 bulbs planted.

By next spring, the bulbs should create a rainbow of colour for the community to enjoy.

Susan Seagal, chairwoman of resident group Maida Vale RMO, took part on October 9. She said: “This project is wonderful.

I’m very happy living in Westminster and I’ve been in this area for five years, so I like to see things which can enhance the area.

“I’m proud of our estate and people always comment on how nice it is, so this gardening will make it even better.”

Residents were consulted on the locations and timings and where there is a resident’s association in the area, these were also involved in the decision-making.

The two-hour gardening events began last week and will continue this week on the Brunel estate at Westbourne Park tomorrow and the Hallfield estate in Bayswater on Wednesday (10am-noon).

Bulbs have been planted at the Grosvenor and Regency (Millbank), Lydford (West Kilburn) and Abbots Manor (Pimlico) Estates. Lillington and Longmoore Gardens (Pimlico) and Hall and Braithwaite (Paddington Green) have also benefited.

To sign up for either remaining dig, contact Ian Merriman, the resident engagement team leader, on housing.enquiries@westminster.gov.uk or call freephone number 0800 358 3783 .

You can also visit https://www.westminster.gov.uk/yourhousing/bloom