“Poo for the future”

A celebration at the Isle of Walney Community Growing Space will mark the completion of accessibility works including a new compost toilet

This Saturday 14^thSeptember, Art Gene will host a gathering of volunteers, allotmenteers and friends at the Isle of Walney Community Growing Space.

This event marks the completion of works to the site on Walney Island, which have included groundworks, the creation of accessible paths through the allotments and the installation of a new compost toilet, allowing more locals to learn about growing food and creative ways to nurture sustainability in the town.

The compost toilet, illustrated by Allotment Soup project Artist in Residence Hannah Brackston, will be officially opened by Cllr., Helen Wall, Deputy Mayor for Barrow, pictured right.

Hannah Brackston, Artist in residence, said

“We’re thrilled to celebrate the achievements of the last year, which would not be possible without all the hard work of the volunteers, allotment holders and the vital support of funders. The accessibility works will allow more even people to get involved in the project and start growing food.”

The project would not be possible without grants from local charity Sir John Fisher Foundation, and National Lottery Awards for All, alongside funding from Arts Council England and the Coastal Communities Fund.

David Dawson, Sir John Fisher Foundation Executive Officer said:

“A successful project is marked, not only by its outcomes for individuals, but also its engagement with the local community, like-minded organisations and stakeholders. In my opinion Art Gene have brought together many different elements of community action and engagement through the Allotment Soup project and our foundation wishes them every success in the next phase of this journey.”

Harvest Celebration

Saturday 14^th September

A celebration of people, produce and a compost toilet. Full event details can be found here.

2pm – 5pm : Gather the harvest and learn traditional and unusual ways to store, fruit, vegetables and herbs for the winter. Learn about what grows throughout the winter by helping us plant out our newly turned beds with a final sewing of seeds and bulbs for the spring

5pm – 7pm: An evening celebration to cook and share some of our delicious produce on the open fire

and the grand toilet opening!

‘Allotment Soup’ is Art Gene’s long term project, actively working with local people since 2015, to establish the ‘Isle of Walney Community Growing Space.’ This project has transformed a field, leased from Barrow Borough Council on Walney Island, into a community resource. More than just an allotment, the design of the site, interventions and actions are about growing food, habitats, new ideas and community.

If you want to get involved in the project, or have a community group you would like to bring, please get in touch with Eve Mulholland, Art Gene Landscape Engagement Coordinator eve.mulholland@art-gene.co.uk.