Have you been down to the new outdoor seating area in North End Road?

The stylish part-cobbled front garden of the NHS clinic on the corner of Coomer Place has been transformed temporarily into a tranquil courtyard garden. We’re looking at ways to keep the space open in the longer term.

After listening to local people’s ideas and suggestions on how we can improve the historic high street, we’ve come up with a list of potential projects. And the temporary seating area, named Crowther Community Garden, is one of them.

Read more about the potential North End Road improvements

It forms part of H&F Council’s community-led redesign of North End Road as we work with businesses, traders and residents to make North End Road a more thriving and welcoming high street.

“Thanks to the local NHS, we’ve been able to bring a fabulous new seating area to North End Road,” said Cllr Ben Coleman, H&F Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care.

“This is the first of many potential improvements which local residents and businesses asked for as we shape the future of North End Road together. We like to do things with residents and businesses, not to them.”

The local NHS has kindly allowed the council to use the space. The garden is part of Crowther Market, an 1840s villa which was once the home of the Crowther family which ran a hugely successful architectural salvage business but is now the clinic.

New seating space

The garden space has proved popular with the local community.

Local resident William Stokes, who has lived in sheltered housing nearby for 13 years, said: “I think it’s a great idea. I really like coming here. It’s a beautiful courtyard.”

Market regular Carol Norris is also a big fan of the new space.

“It’s a really nice area,” said the 71-year-old, who lives in a council flat in Lampeter Square. “I’ve been coming to this market for 50 years and use it every day. Maybe getting rid of the cars every now and then will bring back the good times! This place does me good; live for today, that’s what I say.”

The garden space is open everyday from 10am to 5pm.

Head down and let us know if you like the new space at northendroad@lbhf.gov.uk

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