IVER Environment Centre, managed by Groundwork South, was recently announced as the lucky winner of Affinity Water’s competition to receive The Water Saving Garden from this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Located in the picturesque Colne Valley between Uxbridge and Slough, the centre is set to benefit greatly from this generous donation.
Designed by Chiltern Garden Design, The Water Saving Garden was featured in the Container Gardens category at Chelsea and received a well-deserved bronze medal from the judging panel. The garden is inspired by the rare chalk streams of the Chilterns and aims to showcase water efficiency solutions in a modern and stylish setting.
One of the key features of the garden is the collection of rainwater from rooftops into a dedicated water butt, which is then distributed across plant containers to ensure they receive the right amount of water. Any excess rainwater is cleverly stored in invisible pipes within the planters, making the garden both functional and visually appealing.
The garden will be installed at Iver Environment Centre and will include over 100 herbaceous plants, shrubs, and bulbs, along with a water feature, bamboo decking, and trees. This new addition will not only enhance the beauty of the centre but also provide an educational space for the thousands of visitors it welcomes each year.
In addition to Iver Environment Centre, two other deserving charities were also recognized for their outstanding work in the local community. Katy Barton, the manager of Iver Environment Centre, expressed her excitement about the new garden, stating, “Not only will this garden be a beautiful addition to our grounds but we hope it will showcase water-saving ideas that people can go home and use themselves.”
This generous donation from Affinity Water and the recognition received at the Chelsea Flower Show will undoubtedly have a positive impact on Iver Environment Centre and its mission to educate visitors on water conservation and sustainability. It is a wonderful example of how collaboration between businesses, designers, and non-profit organizations can create something truly special for the community.
