This project was initiated by Soroptimist International Rhyl & District to design and restructure the garden courtyard area outside of the cafeteria.
We met with the tutor and students at the College to discuss ideas and designs for the garden. The students visited the courtyard garden and measured the plots and took soil samples. Designs and a planting scheme were produced by them and agreed with SI Rhyl and the plans were then presented to and agreed by the hospital. The maintenance staff at the hospital prepared the ground and layed sleepers in order to raise the flower beds.
Project Description of Activities:
Redevelopment of the Courtyard Garden at Glan Clwyd Hospital which is accessible from the café/restaurant and is frequented by visitors, staff and patients. The garden is highly visible and accessible from 2 other corridors within the building. The proposal was to:
- Commission a replanting scheme designed for 2 borders measuring 7m by 7m each within the courtyard area.
We worked in partnership with students from Coleg Cambria Horticultural Department for the planting design element of the project and in an advisory capacity throughout the development work.
Regular ongoing maintenance of the Courtyard Garden is undertaken by volunteer members of SI Rhyl & District.
The aim of the project was to provide a garden area that benefits patients, hospital visitors and staff during times of high emotion, uncertainty, stress and potential anguish. Such areas have a positive impact on users and can contribute to patient’s recovery, mindfulness and wellbeing.
The focus was on developing areas for people to sit where they can relax, reflect, communicate and take in the natural beauty of their surroundings.
Working in partnership with the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, the Horticultural Section of Coleg Cambria, together with funding from Conwy Voluntary Services Council, Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council and the Rhyl Community Partnership.
The following photographs show the different stages of the development of the garden