Floral Winchester Group - TrustNews Summer 1986
The Trust is represented in this Group, which is sponsored by the City Council's Amenities Committee.
The face-lift at the Railway Station includes planting areas, and there are to be containers on the islands on the Stockbridge Road, planted and maintained by Lewtas Motors. Unfortunately, the police moved on the gypsy flower sellers who have for years brightened up the lower end of the Precinct. The City is seeking to "liven up" this area with a tall metal display stand like those in use at Exeter. If the police give permission, it will be installed for a trial period of four weeks to test public response. The writer is not keen on it, nor is the City's Landscape Architect. Trust members should convey any views to the Director of Amenity Services, Mr. Simon Cook.
The City has had a poor response to a letter suggesting that firms not ready to put up their own displays should pay "all in” maintenance charges of £40 per window box and £25 per basket for the first year, reducing in future years as the containers are paid for.
Vandalism of plants is a big problem. Many new roses have been stolen from Abbey Gardens, and some shrubs have been removed from the octagonal planters on the Guildhall site, just as the combination of Euonymus fortunei and Rosemary was coming on well. People knock down barriers and drive over the new shrubberies behind the Tourist Office.
The Parks Department puts a great deal of time and thought into its work, above what is strictly required. It would be nice if Trust members could show their appreciation in the form of individual letters. How many members have been to North Walls Park to see what is being done there? Gifts of bulbs for naturalising in the autumn would be most welcome. The few gardeners work hard and to good effect. They need support in kind and in writing.