THE INITIATIVE to transform a patch of eyesore land in Thornton into a community garden and eventually a potential allotment space is to be welcomed.

The fact that 40 people took part in a day of action to spruce up the area is an illustration of the fact that community spirit is still alive and well across our district.

Their work has created a patch of land of which the community can be proud.

'Eyesore' land to become new garden and allotments

Looking further into the future, it’s great to hear that an allotment could be created for use by people in Thornton and the surrounding community.

Over recent years, we have reported many times on the shortage of allotment space across the district and the waiting lists that had built up.

In that light, this scheme seems to be an ideal opportunity to provide space for residents to grow their own food.

The chance to tend an allotment can have far-reaching benefits for residents. Indeed, it’s an activity that offers fresh air, home-grown produce and a healthy lifestyle.

Furthermore, the chance to meet like-minded people at the allotments can reduce social isolation as people indulge in camaraderie with fellow allotment-holders.

So good luck to the newly-formed Sapgate Gardens Association in revamping land that has been overgrown for more than a decade.

There are many similar patches of underused and unloved land across our district and it would be nice to think that other community-minded people may take inspiration from the Thornton project to transform eyesores in their own neighbourhoods.