Winton’s Library Garden’s new viewing platform now has a new bench for its users.

It means the oasis of green can be accessed by wheelchairs and pushchairs and those unable to descend the steps into the heart of the historic space.

The tucked-away garden has been transformed and re-opened thanks to the BH9 Business Community, Winton Library Garden volunteers and the council.

Having previously been shut due to anti-social behaviour, local businesses under the guidance of BH9 Business Community chair Emma Martineau and Winton Library Garden volunteers led by John Hallett spruced it up.

These volunteers now keep it in good condition and a new bench has been installed on the platform.

Emma, whose business community is a member of Bournemouth Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said:

“It was extremely disappointing have the garden closed. So along with volunteers and help from the council, we collectively organised it to be brought back to life. And now with a new bench and viewing platform, those with mobility issues and parents of children in pushchairs can use it too."

“The bench was installed following a grant from the County Infrastructure Levy and it has planters at each end of it. We are currently filling it with plants and bulbs that will flower next spring."

“The garden has won the top regional award from the Royal Horticultural Society but we really want more volunteers to help take it to the next stage."

“Anyone can turn up on Saturdays between 10am until 1pm and give us a hand. It is a real community asset and the more people involved the better.”

Bill Perkins, President of Bournemouth Chamber, said:

“It is gratifying to see one of our members go out of their way for the local people. Business plays an important role in our communities – much of it unseen – and this is a fine example of that."

“The BH9 Business Community does great work in the Winton and Moordown areas and I’d encourage all local businesses to join."

“They also received part of their BCTC membership payments back to help support BH9 operations.”

Photo: BCP Council’s Matt Drum, BH9 Business Community Chair Emma Martineau and Winton Library Garden volunteer John Hallett