Gillespies donates bulbs to mark the opening of Maple West Retirement Village in Stoke-on-Trent.

Gillespies has donated 600 “Narcissus February Gold” bulbs to mark the opening of Maple West, a new retirement village located on the site of the former Westcliffe Hospital in Stoke-on-Trent.

Developed by Sapphire Extra Care Ltd, a partnership between Your Housing Group, Eric Wright Group and Kajima Partnership Ltd, Maple West provides almost 400 ‘extra care’ homes together with new facilities and a communal garden space designed by Gillespies.

The planting project, organised by Your Housing Group, stemmed from a discussion with a local resident named Betty, who resided in the historic workhouse buildings that once occupied the site. Still a key part of the community, Betty was part of the community group that worked with the design team to produce the artwork for the scheme, and inspired the planting programme by reflecting on the pleasure the flowers once provided the community, and in particular the children, during the spring and summer months.

 A group of apprentices from Seddon Construction, volunteers from Gillespies, and helpers from Jackson Nursery’s set about planting 1200 bulbs along the embankment facing Turnhurst road, using a planting layout designed by Gillespies.

Come spring, the bulbs will burst into colour conjuring nostalgic memories for some, but bringing delight and happiness to all.