An initiative to encourage local food cultivation in Eastbourne. Background

Building on existing work completed by the staff from the Schools of Service Management and Health Professions, the University of Brighton intends to use some of their estate at Darley Road in Eastbourne, for food cultivation benefitting the University and the local community in a three-phase project starting in January 2010. The Project

eastbourne_gardening3This On Our Doorsteps project will develop and enhance the green spaces on the Darley Road campus for ongoing seasonal food cultivation, leisure gardening and recreational purposes. This will lead to increased opportunities for local community groups to use the space and in conjunction with staff and students develop skills in food growing and preparation at the University’s Culinary Arts Studio.

The project will aim to identify future teaching and research opportunities for the University and to further engage project partners within the local community. In particular; the project hopes to build on established links with older people’s organisations. Mutual benefit for all partners is central to this project to improve the quality, usage and biodiversity of green spaces on Darley Road, in line with sustainable development initiatives and the Government’s recently announced Food 2030 agenda.

Upon completion of the initial pilot in September 2011, activities will be expanded and funding secured for future growth and benefits. Project Lead

Harvey Ells, School of Service Management Tania Wiseman, School of Health Professions

The project Evaluation is attached