Contractors support Matlock community garden with free groundwork for new facility
Two contractors have been praised for their generosity after carrying out essential groundwork free of charge to support a thriving community garden in Matlock.
PJ Lilley Ltd and Hardyman & Co provided excavation and groundwork at Hurst Farm Community Garden, helping to create a base for a new shed that will support volunteers and community activities on site.
The work was delivered as part of our commitment to social value, working with contractor partners to support and invest in local communities.
Hardyman & Co undertook the excavation works, bringing machinery on site to level a sloped area of land, supplying and laying seven tonnes of aggregate and preparing the ground ready for construction. PJ Lilley Ltd then supplied and installed the paving slabs, completing the base for the large shed in just one day.
The new shed will provide a valuable space for volunteers and visitors to take shelter, prepare refreshments and host community engagement activities with local families.
Tracey Silk, our Community Engagement Officer said: “We are incredibly grateful to both Hardyman & Co and PJ Lilley Ltd for their support at Hurst Farm Community Garden. Their generosity and willingness to give their time and expertise free of charge has made a real difference to the project.
“This new space will support the fantastic work already taking place at the garden, providing a place for volunteers to come together, learn new skills and connect with the community.”
We have supported the development of the community garden since it was established around three years ago as part of the wider Hurst Farm regeneration programme. The garden is run by Hurst Farm Wild Works, a not for profit community interest company and has become a hub for local activity.
Previous support has included helping secure Community Chest funding for perimeter fencing, raised beds, tools and training, alongside practical support from contractors
The garden offers a wide range of activities and opportunities for local people, including:
- Growing food for the community pantry;
- Beekeeping and honey production;
- Teaching gardening and environmental skills;
- Dry stone walling training, with volunteers achieving recognised qualifications;
- Wildlife conservation and education;
- Community activities for families.
Recent improvements, including the installation of power and water, are helping the project to expand further.
The additional excavation of a pond, also supported by Hardyman & Co, will further enhance the site’s biodiversity and learning opportunities.
Tracey concluded: “Projects like this show the power of partnership working and the positive impact social value commitments can have in our communities. It’s fantastic to see local organisations coming together to support something that benefits so many people.”
Jason Bowen, Operations Director at Hardyman & Co said: “We were really pleased to support the Hurst farm Community Garden project. It’s an initiative that brings people together and creates something positive for the local community. Being able to contribute our skills and resources to help make that happen was something we were proud to be part of.”
Paul Lilley, Managing Director at PJ Lilley Ltd said: “It’s great to support projects like this that make a real difference locally. The community garden is a brilliant space, and we were delighted to help by providing and laying the base for the new shed. It’s rewarding to know the work will benefit so many people.”
Photo caption : The new shed at the community garden