New buddy bench installed in bid to make Leverstock Green a more welcoming place
A new buddy bench has been installed as part of improvements which are designed to make Leverstock Green Village Centre a more welcoming place.
The buddy bench, an area where people can sit, start conversations and make friends, was unveiled at a community launch event earlier this month.
Other improvements to the area include the transformation of previously neglected flower beds into attractive planting displays of wildflowers by workers from the Sunnyside Rural Trust, a charity which supports adults with learning disabilities.
Further upgrades have included the installation of cycle racks and signage, as well as brick letters spelling L and G, in celebration of Leverstock Green.
Dacorum Borough Council worked alongside the trust to deliver the improvements, funded through Community Infrastructure Levy contributions allocated by the authority’s Leverstock Green ward councillors, funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and support from Hemel Garden Communities.
Dacorum councillors for the Leverstock Green area Catherine McArevey, Jonathan Gale and Robin Bromham said: “We are delighted to see these improvements completed in the heart of Leverstock Green.
“The new planting and seating have created a more welcoming and attractive space for everyone to enjoy, while we hope the new cycle racks will encourage those who are able to choose cycling over driving when visiting the centre.
“We are particularly pleased with the Buddy Bench and hope residents will embrace the idea, helping to spark conversations, tackle loneliness and bring our community closer together.”
Chief executive of the Sunnyside Rural Trust Keely Siddiqui-Charlick MBE added: “We were delighted to be involved in this project and to help make a positive difference to Leverstock Green Village Centre.
“It has been a fantastic opportunity for the people we support to put their skills into practice and contribute to a project that benefits the wider community.
“We are incredibly proud of the work they have done, and hope residents will enjoy the improvements for years to come.”