Ramsbottom neighbours launch Bury’s first Right to Grow project on derelict land

Thursday, 16 October 2025 12:53

By David Murphy

Charmaine Jones and Natasha Monaghan, leaders of the new ‘Lancaster Roots’ community food garden in Ramsbottom.

A new community garden in Ramsbottom marks the first official site in Bury’s Right to Grow programme, led by local residents determined to turn disused land into a shared food-growing hub.

Bury’s new Right to Grow campaign has taken root with the launch of ‘Lancaster Roots’, a grassroots community food-growing initiative in Ramsbottom. The project is the first of its kind under the borough-wide scheme designed to transform unused public spaces into neighbourhood gardens.

Driven by residents Natasha Monaghan and Charmaine Jones, the initiative has already brought together 15 neighbours who live near the site. Their plan is to convert a patch of derelict land into a vibrant community garden with raised vegetable beds, fruit trees, and even a wildlife pond.

“What began as a simple chat between neighbours has grown into something truly special,” said Charmaine. “We’re excited to start planting soon and grow fresh produce for everyone here.”

Launched in June, Bury Council’s Right to Grow programme invites residents to take over neglected plots of public land and turn them into productive, sustainable spaces. It aims to support physical and mental wellbeing, improve access to healthy food, and strengthen community ties.

The Lancaster Roots team has worked closely with food-growing charity Incredible Edible and received support from Bury Council officers including Lee Buggie, Kathy Taylor and Mark Townsend.

Lee Buggie praised the collaboration:

“This is amazing work. It’s exactly what the Right to Grow scheme is about, bringing people together to create something lasting and positive.”

Councillor Alan Quin, cabinet member for environment, climate change and operations, welcomed the project’s early success.

“This initiative is more than just about planting veg, it’s about neighbourhood pride, sustainability and tackling food poverty head-on. Lancaster Roots is a fantastic example of how local action can shape greener and healthier communities.”

The Right to Grow programme forms part of a wider movement promoting community-led growing projects across the UK. In Bury, it is hoped the success of Lancaster Roots will inspire more groups to take up the offer.

Those interested in starting a similar project are encouraged to get in touch. Residents can email Andrew at Incredible Edible via iepad.volunteers@gmail.com to begin the process of identifying available land and forming a group.