by Graham Tutthill

gtutthill@thekmgroup.co.uk

Community garden pioneer Susan Proudfoot says support for the project is strengthening with a site confirmed and civic backing pledged.

News of the proposal for the garden, on the Roman Lawn near Dover’s Market Square, was revealed in the Mercury last week, and the launch ­meeting was held at Dover Town Council offices on Tuesday.

Ms Proudfoot, who has lived in Dover for 20 years, said she wants the garden to bring together long-time residents and those who have arrived more recently, both young and old.

Around a dozen attended the meeting, which was opened by the Mayor Cllr Ronnie ­Philpott, who wished the project well.

Ms Proudfoot was elected chairman, with Karen Capell as secretary and Bernie Mayall as treasurer. Another meeting will take place on Monday at 5pm, also at the town council offices.

“It has been agreed that the ­garden will be created on the Roman lawn, between Dover Discovery Centre and the Roman Painted House,” said Ms Proudfoot.

“I now have to have talks with the district council, who own the land, to confirm how many years they are prepared to let us use it, to make sure the scheme is viable. I will also be talking to the Allotments Association.

“I don’t know when we will actually start work on the site, but I hope it will be as soon as possible. I just want to get more people signed up to support the project.”

Some people have already promised plants, bulbs and herbs for the garden.

Anyone wanting to become involved can contact Ms Proudfoot through the town council offices in Biggin Street, call 01304 242625.

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