Sensory garden is opened at Downpatrick complex

Sensory garden is opened at Downpatrick complex

11 April 2012 - by BY CIARA COLHOUN

A NEW sensory garden has been officially opened at the Mountview Assessment Centre in Downpatrick.

The centre opened in 1976 and provides day support services for people from all over Down District. There are currently 148 people registered with the centre, which promotes independence, community integration and skills development.

The new sensory garden was opened on Thursday, offering those who use the service the use of an outdoor space where they can use their senses of sight, touch and smell.

The opening of the facility marks the culmination of one year of hard work and planning by many supporters and volunteers.

Seamus Laird, manager at Mountview Assessment and Review Centre, said the challenge was undertaken by supporters of Mountview with funding from Newcastle Lions, families and help from the Housing Executive.

Mr. Laird said the garden was now ready following a lot of hard work over the winter months.

Housing Executive chairman, Mr. Brian Rowntree, said Downpatrick staff were keen to get “their hands dirty and get involved” as soon as they heard of the project.

“Working with a range of people including 60 apprentice labourers, bricklayers and joiners from South East Regional College and with donations of stone, concrete, paving, garden panelling and fencing from McCormick’s Quarry, CEMAC, Stevenson Newcastle, Tobermore Brick, Brooks and J.P.Corry, the project took shape,” he said.

“The sensory garden includes raised flower beds with pleasant strong smelling shrubs, paving, paths, bird boxes, fencing, as well as two gazebos, all of which, are accessible by those with a disability.

“We are very pleased to have been able to help with the project and hope that it will be enjoyed for years to come by in Mountview.

“Staff throughout the Housing Executive have been involved in initiatives which have had an impact beyond housing whether it’s practical help in their local communities or fundraising for worthwhile causes.

“The creation of this sensory garden is an excellent example of what can be achieved when everyone comes together for the good of the community.

“I am delighted with what has been achieved here at Mountview with the help and support of our staff here in Downpatrick and our grounds maintenance team in Newtownards.”