Banbury CSS garden blossoms again thanks to community kindness
Banbury Community Support Services (CSS), run by Oxfordshire County Council, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newly transformed community garden on 12 August 2025.
Providing day support for adults with learning disabilities, mental health needs, dementia, autism, and age-related conditions, Banbury CSS plays a vital role in the local community.
The garden, once a cherished space, fell into disrepair following an incident of vandalism that left the polytunnel destroyed and paths unsafe. With no immediate funds for restoration, the future of the garden looked uncertain.
Refusing to be defeated, the team launched a heartfelt fundraising campaign through their charity, The Friends of Redlands, and reached out to the community via Facebook.
Their call was answered by Milestone, a generous local company that offered to rebuild the garden completely free of charge.
In just one week, their team created a safe, accessible, and serene space, and they continue to support the project by painting fences.
Jen Farrell, Service Manager at Banbury CSS, said: “This garden is more than a space: it’s a symbol of what we can achieve when we come together.
“It reflects the compassion and determination of everyone involved, from volunteers to local businesses.”
The transformation was further supported by:
- Ball Colegrave, who donated seeds and plants
- Nicholsons, who contributed additional plants
- A volunteer day from HSBC staff, coordinated by Alex Greenwood Bell
- Julia Ramm, the project lead, whose dedication from start to finish has been instrumental in bringing the garden back to life
The new garden is now fully wheelchair accessible, featuring raised beds and tranquil corners that are enjoyed by all who attend Banbury CSS.
Every Monday, six dedicated volunteers help maintain and enhance the space, reinforcing the sense of togetherness and hope that defines the service.
Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “Banbury CSS has shown how compassion and collaboration can transform lives and spaces. It’s a privilege to support such a remarkable initiative.
“I would like to add my heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers that gave their time and resources to make this happen."
The grand opening will welcome all who contributed to the project, alongside the people supported by Banbury CSS, their families, and friends.
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