Special needs garden is created

A new eco-friendly gardening project for people with learning disabilities is being created in Gloucestershire.

Green Steps on Tewkesbury Road, Uckington will be able to take 17 people a day to work on the garden.

The two-and-a-half acre site has been designed with input from clients and carers of Berkeley Court.

It is suitable for people with the full range of learning disabilities, including profound and multiple learning disabilities.

The clients' base on site has a grass roof, straw bale insulation and environmentally-friendly underground heating.

Berkeley Court acting manager, Gill Cheveralls, said: "The mission of the project is to enable people to grow plants from seed.

"Those who want to will be able to develop their skills and experience in horticulture and gain certificates."

Final preparations for the new garden are taking place and clients will be starting work in December.