Barnard Park’s £2.8 million transformation isn’t just enhancing green space, it’s creating local opportunities.
Delivered by Blakedown Landscapes for Islington Council, the project includes a two-year aftercare period, during which Blakedown has partnered with Islington Working to employ local resident Micheal Blanks as part of the team maintaining the park.
Islington Working is a partnership of agencies dedicated to helping local residents access good local jobs. As part of this initiative, Micheal will work three days a week as a gardener, gaining hands-on experience alongside Blakedown’s maintenance team and Islington Council’s Park Keeper.
His role includes watering newly planted trees, shrubs, and plants, as well as general upkeep tasks like weeding, pruning, and litter picking. Beyond contributing to the park’s long-term success, this opportunity provides Micheal with valuable skills that will support his future employment with transferrable skills.
Allison Glover, Green Skills & Jobs Officer, Community Wealth Building, Islington Working said “It was great collaborating with Blakedown on this placement. They were flexible and accommodating in adjusting the employment contract as needed, ensuring the best fit for Micheal. Most importantly, we are thrilled that Micheal is settling into his new role as Park Keeper and gaining valuable experience. Creating pathways into local employment is a key part of what we do, and it’s fantastic to see this partnership helping to achieve that."
Blakedown’s regeneration of Barnard Park has transformed the space into a greener, more accessible environment for the local community. Ecological improvements, including a traditional orchard, native hedgerows, and wildflower meadows, have increased local wildlife habitats by 52%. Meanwhile, upgraded pathways, fitness equipment, and a new community hub have made the park more inclusive and welcoming.
Chris Wellbelove, Managing Director of Blakedown Landscapes, commented: “At Blakedown Landscapes, we believe the value of our work goes beyond creating high-quality green spaces, it is also about making a lasting difference in the communities where we work. By collaborating with Islington Council and employing local residents like Micheal, we’re not just enhancing the park; we’re helping to build skills and opportunities for the local workforce. It’s about delivering landscapes that stand the test of time while supporting the communities who live around them.”
