Reflection Garden

Tuesday 29^th September 2023 saw a gathering of Daventry Rotary Club members, Daventry Town Council Councillors and Officers, representatives from Daventry Norse and Dennett's Garden Centre at New Street Park's Reflection Garden to install a plaque formalising the partnership behind the beautifully planted area.

Bob Leaper of Daventry Rotary Club opened the ceremony with the Rotary's hope for this sensory garden being used by the community as a place of serene reflection. Whether that be meditating on those lost during the pandemic, enjoying the sunshine and plants or taking a few moments rest on the surrounding benches.

Mayor, Cllr Ted Nicholl attended with his consort and discussed the planting scheme with planting advisors, gardeners and designers, George Russell of Norse, Fiona Dennett and Community Projects Officer, Carrie Gardner-Pett. Cllr Nicholl observed that the garden was testament to what can be achieved when local businesses, charities and local government work collaboratively. He hoped the area would become a cherished part of the community's landscape.

The area was a riot of colour in 2021 when members of the Rotary Club first planted wildflower seeds. In 2022 it was decided by partners that a planting scheme was needed to give the garden year-round colour, interest and scent. All planting was purchased from Dennett's Garden Centre, who also donated a large amount of materials and their time and advice. The planting was carried out by Norse and town council officers and this year as the plants have established and been regularly tended by Norse and the Rotary Club, the sights of heuchera flowers, buddleia and skimia as well as scents of lavender, thyme and rosemary can be enjoyed by all visitors – including the gently buzzing pollinators!