A community organization, Up The Garden Bath, has marked a significant milestone in its four-year journey by raising £300,000 to support independent businesses. Founded by Dave Poulton from Peterborough, the initiative has transformed discarded bathtubs into colorful flower beds throughout Cambridgeshire while fostering local entrepreneurship.
Origins and Evolution
Launched in 2020, Up The Garden Bath began as a creative project aimed at upcycling unwanted bathtubs into vibrant flower planters. This innovative idea not only provided an environmentally friendly solution for waste but also brought aesthetic enhancements to various community spaces. Since its inception, the organization has upcycled over 70 bathtubs, contributing to the beautification of public areas.
Expansion into Retail
In addition to its upcycling efforts, the organization expanded its impact with the launch of the Unity store at the Queensgate shopping center. The store serves as a retail platform for dozens of independent and small businesses, allowing them to showcase and sell their products. This move has significantly boosted local entrepreneurship, providing a valuable space for small-scale producers to reach a broader audience.
Community Impact
The Unity store and the upcycling project together have supported over 150 local artists and small businesses. This collaborative effort has not only enriched the community but also provided practical assistance to many. For instance, a vendor reported that the support from Up The Garden Bath enabled them to afford Christmas presents for their children, illustrating the tangible impact of the initiative on individual lives.
Celebration and Recognition
The organization celebrated its achievements with a special event at Queensgate, which was attended by over 100 people, including the mayor of Peterborough. The event highlighted the success of Up The Garden Bath and its contributions to the local economy and community spirit. Mr. Poulton expressed pride in the project’s unique approach, stating, “Most charities and community projects do it the other way and are asking for money. We seem to have got it upside down and are raising our own money and helping others do the same, so it is a real community collaborative project.”
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Up The Garden Bath is working on an ambitious new project: Peterborough’s largest community garden. The organization has secured seven acres of land for this endeavor, with work expected to commence in September. This new initiative aims to further enhance the community’s green spaces and provide additional support for local businesses and residents.
Recognition and Awards
The organization’s efforts have garnered recognition, including a nomination for the BBC’s Make a Difference Awards. This accolade underscores the significant positive impact that Up The Garden Bath has had on the community, celebrating its innovative approach to supporting local businesses and environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
Up The Garden Bath’s journey from upcycling bathtubs to fostering local entrepreneurship and community development exemplifies the power of creative and collaborative projects. With its continued commitment to enhancing public spaces and supporting small businesses, the organization stands as a testament to the positive change that community-driven initiatives can achieve. As it moves forward with plans for a large community garden and other projects, Up The Garden Bath remains a beacon of innovation and community spirit in Peterborough.