Blooming marvellous in Hatch End

The Hatch End Masorti Synagogue donated funds for flower planting and hanging baskets outside shops in the area as part of its tenth birthday celebrations this year. The Council planted the blooms, including geraniums and petunias, and will water and maintain them throughout the summer.

It is hoped that other organisations across Harrow will follow suit and work with the Council on similar flower planting schemes around the borough under the Adopt A Bed scheme. It has been established to encourage individuals, community groups and businesses to take on the maintenance of a flower bed or planter in their local area.

The Council provides the flowers and installs a plaque with the name or organisation on it to show their support.

Cllr Phillip O'Dell, Portfolio Holder for Community and Environment on Harrow Council, said:

"Making our main shopping centres brighter, more attractive places to visit is just one of a number of Council initiatives to support businesses through the recession.

"Flowers and planting schemes boost community pride and a cared for local area reduces crime and anti-social behaviour.

"We are delighted to have the support of the Hatch End Masorti Synagogue and hope they will be the first of many community organisations and businesses who will work with us to revitalise our trading areas."

Edwin Lucas, Honorary Secretary at Hatch End Masorti Synagogue, said:

"We are really pleased to support the Council in making the Hatch End Commercial centre a better place to work and a place where visitors feel happy and proud to come to.

"Our discussions with the Council have been going on for many months and Hatch End Masorti Synagogue, which has recently celebrated its 10th birthday, is delighted, as a local community facility to give something back. 

"We hope that this will be the first of a number of initiatives by local businesses and good causes to improve their local areas."