Inclusive garden and learning space for Lancaster School

The Loyne Specialist School approached us with the idea of creating an accessible garden where children could learn about agriculture.

To kick off this project, we established a mulch pathway by digging out the designated area to the necessary depth and installing 100mm aluminum edging. At this stage, the team needed to place Terram construction fabric at the base of the excavated path to keep weeds from reaching the surface. Next, we imported and compacted a layer of stone to create a solid sublayer. The final step was to apply a 50mm layer of mixed green and brown eco mulch for a natural finish.

The following task involved establishing a resin bound gravel area. We began by excavating a 44m² section and adding the aluminum edging detail. Next, we installed a compact layer of stone to create a stable base for the area. After that, we applied a 60mm thick layer of base course Tarmac, ensuring it was well rolled before finally laying down a buff resin bound gravel finish using UVR resin to ensure it wouldn't be affected by sunlight.

The team proceeded to install one compost pit and three sleeper planters made from redwood timber sleepers that were treated to help prevent rot and thereby extend their outdoor lifespan. All four units were then lined with terram fabric to stop weeds from infiltrating the compost and planters. We then repeated this process for two square tray-style planters and one small square sleeper planter designed for better wheelchair accessibility, making the area more inclusive. These planting spaces provided an opportunity for the children at this school to learn about agriculture and plant growth, as well as deepen their understanding of plant biology.

The final task in completing this garden involved creating an additional resin bonded seating area and mulch strip adjacent to the poly tunnel. For the circular seating area, we excavated a 6m² section to the required depth, installed an aluminum edging detail, imported and compacted a layer of MOT stone sub-base, and laid a 60mm thick layer of base course for drainage before finishing with a resin bound gravel surface using UVR resin to ensure it remained unaffected by sunlight. The mulch strip was completed in a similar manner, but instead finished with a resin bonded eco mulch surface instead of base course and gravel.

We are thrilled with the outcome, and it's clear that the school shares our enthusiasm. Since this successful collaboration, we have had the pleasure of working on multiple projects with The Loyne Specialist School. Our ongoing relationship is built on a shared vision for enhancing the learning environment for students. We look forward to many more exciting projects together, continuing to create spaces that inspire and support the incredible work being done at The Loyne Specialist School.