East Suffolk Council
A new garden for Kirkley
With help from the local community, a new garden has been created in Kirkley.
Throughout the winter, visual artist and illustrator Catalina Carvajal led workshops with schools, youth groups, care homes and the community to find out what Kirkley means to them.
Over 120 people shared their thoughts, ideas, and designs which inspired Catalina’s new mural for Cleveland Road, as part of Kirkley Pocket Parks Group (KPPG) gardening project.
Painting took place in March and April, led by Catalina and supported by members of the local community.
Catalina Carvajal said: “Working with the community at Kirkley and helping to paint the mural on Cleveland Road has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life. Passers-by were very encouraging, and the neighbours were thrilled about having a piece of public art at their doorstep. It was lovely to see children and adults pointing at the different bits they could recognise.
“I love Kirkley! I met wonderful people, made new friends, and enjoyed life in a welcoming place next to the sea. We need more public art around Suffolk inspired by the people's voices. Art can positively shape and change the way we see the world. Everyone should have access to it.”
In May, members of the Kirkley Pocket Parks Group finished preparing the site, repainted the railings, and planted up the area in front of the mural to create an attractive garden.
Wendy Dalton, Chair of KPPG said: “It’s fantastic how the new artwork has brought together responses from the community to celebrate what Kirkley means to the people who live here. The planting design was chosen by the community through surveys and compliments the artwork illustrating the vibrancy of the area and what Kirkley has to offer, as well as brightens up a neglected plot of land.”
The mural project was funded by and delivered in partnership with Kirkley Pocket Parks Group, Kirkley People’s Forum and the Lowestoft Heritage Action Zones, whilst additional funding for the garden was provided by Suffolk County Council and Kirkley Poors. Farrans also provided some volunteers, and materials.
Cllr Toby Hammond, East Suffolk Council’s cabinet member for Economic Development and Transport, said: “This is a fantastic example of a community coming together to have a hand in creating something bold, welcoming and inclusive for local people to be proud of.
“It gives the wider garden project a unique and recognisable identity – and encapsulates the aim of the Lowestoft Heritage Action Zones programme, to revitalise and help to regenerate the area as a vibrant place to live, work and visit.”
Local volunteers will maintain the garden, along with other Kirkley Pocket Parks Group projects at Lovewell Road and the planters along London Road South. The group will soon be starting work on the planters at St Leonard’s Road and Richmond Place, as well as a larger project at Kirkley Ham.
On Thursday 29 June, the garden was officially launched by Cllr Caroline Topping, Leader of East Suffolk Council. The launch event was also attended by volunteers, Catalina Carvajal, local councillors and representatives from local funders and participating schools.
If you would like to see more about the work of the Kirkley Pocket Parks Group, a photobook is available for public viewing at the Kirkley Centre. Anyone interested in joining the group can contact the Kirkley Pocket Parks Group Facebook page or email Wendy@KirkleyPeoplesForum.org.uk.