I hope you are well and looking forward to the upcoming SCR bluebell walks!

The reason I am emailing is because I would very much like to apply for a Friends of the University grant to help fund a project focussing on the development of a small allotment near to Park House. The specific site in question is the small patch of land bordering the brick wall between Park House and Eat at the Square. Currently there is an assortment of bamboo and non-native ornamental plants but I am in conversation with Matt Tebbit (Head of Residential Catering & Bars) and Estates to convert the land into an allotment for growing high value greens and herbs, in a series of raised beds, to be used in the various kitchens around campus, especially Park House. Additionally we plan to grow espalier trained fruit trees (e.g. apple, pear, plum) along the whole length of the brick wall. A small area will be used for growing comfrey which has the dual benefit of attracting pollinators and serving as a very good source of nitrogen in a planned wormery.

Following initial set up the plan is that kitchen staff and student volunteers manage and take care of the site. Whilst we expect relatively good yields the main idea is to use the site as a teaching resource making students appreciate where their food comes from and more aware of the Farm to Fork Strategy which aims to make food systems fair, healthy and environmentally friendly. With such a central location our ‘Flavour Garden’ will be an effective tool at communicating these issues to a wide audience especially as we plan on incorporating educational signage.

To cover the purchase of materials (including but not limited to raised bed sleepers, soil/compost, bareroot fruit trees, items for training trees, seeds, wormery) I am seeking £1200.

I really do hope you will consider this project for funding and please do feel free to email me if you require any further details.

Thank you very much for your time.

Glyn