
Last year, Growing People CIC at Lanjeth Nursery received a TEP Environment Grant to help improve access to the organisation's restored pond habitats in Cornwall.
Since then, the project has successfully transformed the area into a more accessible outdoor learning space, creating new opportunities for children and people with reduced mobility to connect with nature.
Working with a local carpenter, Growing People CIC commissioned the construction of a bespoke wooden boardwalk around two of the site's ponds. The finished project went beyond the original brief, with the addition of three wheelchair-accessible viewing gantries and specially designed hatches that allow visitors to safely observe pond life up close. These features enable children and adults of all abilities to explore freshwater habitats, learn about local wildlife and gain a better understanding of the role ponds play in supporting biodiversity.



The improvements form part of a wider restoration project at Lanjeth Nursery, where Growing People CIC is bringing 13.5 acres of woodland, ponds and water gardens back into active use for community benefit. The site is home to an exceptional range of wildlife, including 14 recorded species of dragonfly, creating unique opportunities for environmental education and nature-based wellbeing activities.
The new infrastructure is already supporting the organisation's growing programme of outdoor learning sessions. As the team launched its summer forest school programme, including sessions for children eligible for free school meals, the accessible pond area has helped more young people engage directly with the natural environment.
Reflecting on the project, Managing Director Mark Woolcock said:

We now have accessible ponds which are safe for children to access and learn more about the environment and the part they play in it. As we start our first summer forest school, we hope to see increased access to the ponds and a greater connection from all.
This project is a fantastic example of how relatively small improvements can remove barriers to nature, helping more people experience, learn from and care for local wildlife.
We are delighted to see the lasting impact of this project and would like to thank Growing People CIC for sharing their achievements with us.



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