Wild communities - Arboretum Residents Association

A circular bench in the middle of a flower-rich greenspace with houses in the background by Liz Yorke

Community greenspace in Worcester's Arboretum by Liz Yorke

Community action

Arboretum Residents Association

At the heart of the Arboretum, alongside the Birmingham Worcester Canal, lies the Pocket Park. Created and maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers, it provides a meeting space for residents throughout the year. From the ‘Love the Arbo’ light festival in February to the annual Arbo Fete, the space brings people together and is there for all to enjoy.

This community park is managed by volunteers. It is a partially edible garden with fruit, vegetables and herbs that reflect the diversity of our community and which we hope can be shared by the community. We aim to be organic and wildlife-friendly.

Welcome sign to Arboretum Pocket Park

Full of pollinator friendly planting, the garden is alive with bees, bugs and butterflies. Habitat piles and bug houses provide shelter for mammals, reptiles and invertebrates. Volunteers meet up regularly to keep the keep the garden looking great for all those who use it.

Two children holding up paper bags that they've decorated with swifts and wildflowers by Liz Yorke — Swift bags by Liz Yorke

Wildflower seeds were shared with locals to help support the insect population and the swifts that depend on them. Following on from summer surveys, swift boxes are to go up over the winter to help attract more of these declining birds back to the area.

Liz Yorke, Wilder Worcester Engagement Officer for the Trust, commented "This project is an amazing example of a community working together to care the environment for both people and wildlife."

The group is always looking for new members so if you live in the area and are interested in joining them you can find them on their Arboretum Residents Association Facebook page.