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Case Study - Melville Court Estate

Melville Court Estate

Some of Groundwork Kent & Medway's earliest projects took place at Melville Court Estate way back in 1995. Built in the 1970's and often described as a 'concrete desert' with few green spaces the Estate had many problems including high levels of crime and unemployment. Together with the Medway Housing Society (mhs homes) Groundwork helped to turn things around.

Environmental improvements were made around the Estate including the creation of communal gardens, a community courtyard, a toddler's play area and a new ball court for young people. Residents were involved in each project and helped to decide what the priorities areas were and what the designs should be.

The homes at Melville Court do not have gardens so access to green space was very important to the residents. When planting days were held residents regulary turned out in force to help. Catching the gardening bug the residents soon adopted their own areas within the community courtyard to look after in the future.

The estate now has a different atmosphere and a community spirit has blossomed. It has become a place where people want to live.

Before and after works

Cutting the cake to open the new ball court

The ball court in use at the opening event

Toddlers Play Area

Groundwork Kent & Medway
48 Canterbury Street
Gillingham
Kent ME7 5UN