The Sensory Garden at Forth Valley Sensory Centre has officially reopened after major redevelopment work. Mr Alan Simpson, Lord Lieutenant of Falkirk and Stirling, cut the ribbon in front of invited guests.
The works cost £30,000 and were funded by Falkirk Environment Trust and Tesco Bags of Help (Groundwork) as well as many individual donors and fundraisers. Extensive work has resulted in a more open, tactile and safe environment, not just for Centre Users, but also for the whole community.
Centre Manager Jacquie Winning said:
“When the garden was vandalised in October 2016 we saw it as an opportunity to make some changes. Lots of great new features have been added to the garden, including a new water feature, raised planters with seating, colourful, safe flooring, a pergola, musical instruments and a traditionally hand-crafted wooden bench and signage.
“We are especially delighted to have some fantastic, tactile artwork. Artist Tom Allan has kindly donated one piece, “Wave Vortex” through the Sculpture Placement Group scheme. Crafted from handpicked Italian marble, it is a beautiful piece to look at and has great tactile qualities for people with sight loss. We have also been able to finally find a friend for our Tinman. For over 12 years, he has patiently stood with his hand out welcoming young and old to the Sensory Garden. Now, thanks to artist Fiona Fleming, he has a Tin Lady companion.”
Other features include a special panel to replicate the eye condition Retinitis Pigmentosa, also known as tunnel vision and a BSL alphabet board where people can have a go at signing their name. Hand carved wooden signs add a finishing touch while a ‘Welcome’ mosaic tile wall, crafted by Centre Users, sits in pride of place at the entrance.
The Lord Lieutenant said:
“The Forth Valley Sensory Centre is an outstanding facility that helps so many people who have lost their sight or hearing lead normal fulfilled lives. The coordinated approach by multiple agencies and the provision of a broad range of services is what makes it so successful.
“I am therefore delighted that the Sensory Garden is reopening again and is even better as it incorporates a number of improvements that will appeal to everyone in the community and not just those with a sensory condition. Everyone who has been involved in the planning or fundraising and who helped to create the garden really need to be congratulated for what they have achieved.”
The opening event took place in front of an invited group of dignitaries, including funders, donors, volunteers and Centre Staff, who all played a part in bringing the Sensory Garden back to life.
Jacquie added:
“It has been a lot of work and a slow process as we secured the right people and installations for the job. The way it has turned out, the effort put in by our volunteers, staff and fundraisers has been extraordinary and this was a great chance to pass on the thanks of everyone involved with the Centre.”
The Sensory Garden is a public facility, open to everyone, from 9am-5pm each day. There are benches and tables where visitors can enjoy their own food or purchase something from the Centre Café.
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