Not 'Normal for Hartcliffe' - the community garden worth fighting for

We believe in the power of green spaces to bring people together and support wellbeing.

That’s why we’ve been working with local people in Hartcliffe to create something truly special at Hartcliffe Millennium Green: a new sensory garden, designed by and for local Disabled people and carers.

Made possible by so many

With generous support from National Grid and the dedication of local groups including Friends of Hartcliffe Millennium Green, Vision BAME, Roots to Wellbeing and Mix & Match Gardening, the garden was carefully planted to be a calming, welcoming place filled with colour, scent and texture with plants like lamb’s-ear, echinacea and thyme.

It’s not just a garden – it’s a symbol of community care, inclusion and pride.

Relentless vandalism

But recently, this space has faced repeated vandalism.

More than 70 plants have been stolen or moved, sometimes just days after being replanted.

Each time, volunteers have come back, determined to restore it. But the ongoing damage has left many feeling frustrated and disheartened.

This isn’t just about plants – it’s about local people’s efforts, hopes and the future of a space meant to be shared and cherished.

Not Normal for Hartcliffe

We know Hartcliffe faces challenges with anti-social behaviour, but this level of theft and disruption isn’t “just what happens”. It’s not normal – and it’s not what this community deserves.

"The garden is a shared space that brings people from different cultures together, but it’s heartbreaking to see the hard work of our community uprooted by vandalism. We’ve replanted what we can, even with limited tools, and we’re determined to keep it beautiful – but we all need to look out for it and each other." – Avril, Vision BME representative

This garden belongs to Hartcliffe. It was created with care by local people, for local people. And now, more than ever, it needs your help.

How you can help

If you live nearby, please help keep an eye on the garden. Let others know it’s a valued space. If you’ve got a bit of time, we’d love more hands to help care for it – whether that’s by coordinating activities, watering, planting or simply being present. And if you have any seedlings or plants you could donate for replanting, we'd so appreciate it.

Together, we can protect this space and make sure everyone can enjoy the peace, beauty and pride it brings.