In 2016, we embarked on a transformative journey to convert a former council maintenance site into a thriving community garden centre and plant nursery. Since then, Sunderland Home Grown CIC has grown to provide training and employment opportunities to people with disabilities and other barriers, while offering social and therapeutic horticulture to the local community. 

 

 

Now we have set our sights on The Farrers Arms in Crook, County Durham. Our vision is to establish a social enterprise community garden centre and licensed café at the site of the former pub — provided we have the support of local residents. This project will not only enhance the local environment but also provide significant benefits to the local community.

Gardening fosters a great sense of community by bringing people together to work towards a common goal. Our community garden centre will provide a space for social interaction, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas among neighbours.

 

 

Engaging in gardening activities also promotes physical activity, reduces stress, and improves mental health and well-being. Our community garden centre will provide opportunities for exercise, relaxation, and social interaction.

"This project will give a local pub a new lease of life that will benefit the local community. It will revitalise the Farrers public house, creating a community café and garden, offering greater opportunities for local people."

Anne Reed, County Councillor for the Crook Division 

 

 

“This will protect a local pub for local people—creating a community pub, community café, and community garden—replicating what we have achieved at Sunderland Home Grown CIC in Crook,” says Managing Director, Gary Hillery, a born and bred County Durham resident passionate about his local area.

By signing this petition, you are showing your support for us to move forward with our vision to create an inclusive space that fosters community spirit while promoting health benefits through gardening activities. You will be helping us to extend our reach in providing meaningful employment opportunities for those who face barriers entering the workforce, as well as directly contribute to the economic vitality of the area. Residents will benefit from access to a plethora of affordable plants, flowers, landscaping materials, and local produce right on their doorstep.

We urge you to sign this petition today, together we can transform The Farrers Arms into a hub of growth – for plants and people alike!

 

 

Find out more about what we offer and join our growing community on the Sunderland Home Grown CIC Facebook page.