New communal garden blossoms at Gibson Terrace

Residents at Gibson Terrace in Ashton are celebrating the arrival of a colourful new outdoor space after the transformation of their once under-used communal garden.

The supported housing scheme, run by Jigsaw Homes Group, has seen its outdoor area revitalised with fresh seating, timber benches, planters, and an array of herbs, fruits and flowers. What was once an overgrown and under-appreciated corner of the property has been turned into a welcoming green retreat where residents can relax, socialise and enjoy nature.

The project was officially unveiled at a community event attended by residents, their families and children, alongside Jigsaw’s Chief Executive Brian Moran and Chris Casey, Chief Executive of The Casey Group. Children at Gibson Terrace played an active part in planting and creating artwork for the space, helping to make the garden feel like their own.

The work was delivered by The Casey Group through its Improving Lives Fund, which supports community initiatives. Old canopies and worn-out furniture were removed, clearing the way for new, accessible features designed to encourage residents to spend more time outdoors.

John Walmsley, Social Impact Executive at The Casey Group, said: “Casey is proud to continue our commitment to the Tameside community, where in partnership with Jigsaw Homes we helped turn an under-used communal area into a welcoming garden. With residents joining the final planting session, the project has created a true sense of ownership and community connection.”

Donna Kelly, Group Director of Neighbourhoods and Support at Jigsaw Homes, praised the collaboration: “We would like to thank Casey for all their hard work on this fantastic project. It has created a great space for our residents and their families to enjoy. The children have been very involved in the planting, and they also now have a separate dedicated space for them too. This has been a great collaboration from all involved!”

Resident Stacey said the garden has already made a difference to daily life: “My two girls loved getting involved with the planting, and they are keen to make sure that the garden thrives. We all love the garden now, and it is really nice to have a place where we can all sit out and chat and enjoy the outdoors.”

The transformation was also supported by additional funding and contributions from Drees & Sommer UK, DK Architects, the Jigsaw Foundation, and the STAR (Supported Temporary Accommodation Residents) group, who helped with gardening activities and bringing the vision to life.