A Cumbrian mental health charity is hoping to take over a former plant nursery in Egremont.
Growing Well, based in Kendal, has applied to Cumberland Council to demolish the existing buildings at Beck Green Nursery in Cross Side and build a new modular classroom at the one hectare site.
The site, formerly known as Beck Green Nursery and Copeland Nursery, has remained unused for nearly a decade.
The application from Growing Well, which also operates from a site at Tebay, said: “This period of dormancy has presented an opportunity for transformation and renewal, allowing us to breathe new life into this once vibrant space through the Growing Well project.”
The nursery had six glasshouses and out buildings where plants were cultivated for the council.
According to the application, Growing Well still has to get the modular unit and will collaborate closely with the council to ensure that the external finishes align with the character of the local area and meet their specific requirements.
It is proposed that the site will be used for horticultural and mental health support and Growing Well comprises two primary aspects – sustainable agriculture and the use of this platform to support individuals with their mental health.
Growing Well said: “Our project operates as a small-scale market garden, dedicated to producing exquisite, organic produce for the local community. This not only encourages healthier dietary choices but also bolsters local food networks and reinforces sustainability principles.
“We are unwavering in our commitment to producing 100 per cent homegrown organic produce that is both meaningful and accessible. Our primary product is vegetable boxes, containing enough fresh vegetables to sustain a family for a week.
“To ensure equitable access in the face of rising food costs, half of these food boxes are subsidised and provided to local low-income households. It’s worth noting that all on-site work is conducted using hand tools, and there is no involvement of heavy machinery as part of this application.”
The charity offers cost-free support to individuals grappling with mental health challenges.
It said: “Within our safe and nurturing environment, individuals can establish recovery goals and work collaboratively with our dedicated staff and fellow volunteers to attain them. Growing Well offers individuals facing mental health challenges a holistic approach to healing.
“It combines the therapeutic benefits of nature, physical activity, social interaction, and achievement to create an environment where individuals can find solace, purpose, and improved mental well-being.”
The project has funding support from Copeland Community Fund, The National Lottery Community Fund and the NDA. The funding package from the three major funders, totalling over £600,000, will also support the running costs of the charity’s therapeutic horticulture service over the next three years.
Growing Well announced its intention to take on the Egremont site in September.
The matter is currently being considered by council planning officers.
