The rockery in Albion Garden was finished in approximately 1894, with early postcards of Ramsgate often including this unique local man made feature. When it was first established, the level of planting was very low, but as the years have gone by, the growth has increased and become more dense, with the rockery becoming obscure.
The rockery has also been damaged by the roots of the plants over the years, with the foundation stones becoming exposed. Repointing work is now needed and repairs will be undertaken over the coming months to repair cracks with suitable mortar.
With the council’s limited funds, the Probation Service 'Community Payback' have been working with the council’s Parks section to clear the over mature shrubs and young trees. The work is in its initial stages and, once the roots have been removed, replanting will be needed. When finished, the work will help re-establish the waterfall as it was intended to be seen.
Cllr. Shirley Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: “Although the work has just got underway, it’s already made a big impact that can clearly be seen by anyone walking or driving up Madeira Walk. The work has opened up views of the garden and the rockery can be seen as it was originally intended.
Community Payback is intended to provide work, where it will improve the overall appearance of a site for the community and the offenders can contribute something back to the life of local residents.
well done to all who have are working on this project. It will be great to see the gardens looking as they were designed to be.
ReplyDeleteWould like to see more litter collected from around the area as well please.