We’re excited to announce a unique opportunity for our students to help shape a brand-new community garden on campus. This project is a collaboration between the University of Salford, Barratt Redrow – one of the UK’s largest homebuilders – and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Together, we will create a green space that reflects our shared values of sustainability, community and biodiversity.
What’s the Vision?
The Barratt Redrow Community Garden will be more than just a green space. Instead, it will:
- Provide a beautiful, reflective area for students, staff and visitors to enjoy.
- Support biodiversity, following the RSPB’s Giving Nature a Home guidelines.
- Act as a community asset by offering opportunities to volunteer and learn.
- Serve as an educational resource for sustainability, ecology and community development.
- Celebrate the concept of creating homes, inspired by Barratt Redrow’s garden designs.
- Require little maintenance so it remains sustainable over time.
Importantly, the garden will be located in front of the School of Science, Engineering and Environment (SSEE) building, making it highly visible and accessible.
What Are We Looking For?
WWe’re inviting students from all disciplines to submit innovative and creative design ideas that bring the garden to life. Your proposal could include:
- Concept sketches or visualisations.
- Planting ideas that prioritise native and pollinator-friendly species.
- Suggestions for sustainable seating, pathways, or raised beds.
- Features that encourage biodiversity such as bird boxes, bug hotels or wildflower planting.
- Accessibility considerations so that the space is welcoming for everyone.
- Ideas for community engagement and educational activities.
- A simple yet effective maintenance plan.
Because the total budget is £10,000, your design must be realistic. However, you will receive expert support from the RHS, which means your creativity can be fully realised.
Why Get Involved?
By taking part, you will gain far more than design experience. For example, you will:
- Contribute to a lasting community project on campus.
- Work alongside industry partners and experts, including the RHS.
- Enhance your portfolio and employability skills.
- Help create a space that promotes sustainability and wellbeing.
As a result, your contribution will have an impact that goes beyond the University, benefiting both people and nature.
How to Take Part
Submit your design proposal by Friday 24 October 2025 to:
📧 H.C.Whitehurst@salford.ac.uk
Shortlisted students will be invited to present their ideas to a panel of stakeholders from the University, Barratt Redrow, and the RHS. The winning design will be developed further in collaboration with the RHS, with opportunities to be actively involved in bringing it to life.