Earlier this year, we shared an update on the planning and early progress around the gardens at our three sites, with residents enthusiastically exchanging ideas, working together, and preparing for the warmer seasons ahead.

Now that summer is well on its way, we’re delighted to report the incredible transformation taking place. Our residents have brought their skills and passion to life, creating beautiful outdoor spaces where neighbours — and local wildlife — can relax, connect, and enjoy the sunshine.

At Melrose Gardens, residents Tony and Derek have made impressive strides on their to-do list. The benches have been freshly painted a vibrant blue, trellises brightened with white paint, and cheerful hanging baskets now decorate the space. New cherry trees and a variety of colourful plants add vibrancy, while a dedicated corner for vegetable growing — complete with clever bamboo frames for the peas — showcases sustainable gardening in action. The outdoor seating area is now a perfect resting spot, with ornamental teapots next to the benches adding a charming touch.

Over at Bagot House, the raised vegetable beds are thriving, with onions and rhubarb nearly ready for harvest. Protective tents and cages keep young lettuces and tomato plants safe from curious wildlife. The range of planted seeds reflects the hard work and creativity of the residents. Next door, at Lucas Court, hanging baskets and bright flower pots provide a warm floral welcome, while a new miniature garden plot featuring a fairy houses and tiny decorative toadstools has captured the imaginations of our younger visitors.

The gardens at Thorngate Court are flourishing, a clear reflection of the care and time invested by residents. Everyone has their own small plot to personalise, and the diversity is wonderful: from bold red poppies and fragrant lavender to dual-coloured verbena, geraniums, and vivid pink fuchsias. Decorative touches like bird baths and woodland animal statues make it a delight to explore.

Resident Thelma has been working with her daughters to brighten her space, adding rose bushes and a new bench complete with two fox ornaments. Nearby, three previously tired communal garden boxes have been lovingly restored, thanks to a shared community to pay for the work carried out. They now bring bright colour to the central garden walk-through.

At Elizabeth Court, the transformation continues. A hexagonal planter features an eclectic mix of plants, flowers, gnomes, and rockery designs. A sunny pergola is framed with potted plants, and scattered around the garden are handmade bug hotels, bird baths, and feeders — all buzzing with activity. As we were leaving, we caught sight of a bee enjoying a vibrant orange Californian poppy — a fitting symbol of the garden’s appeal to wildlife.

Chief Executive Anne Taylor said: “It’s a joy to walk around our sites and see the gardens coming into their best. The variety of colours and scents truly brings our outdoor spaces to life. With each resident contributing their own personal touch, the gardens are a shared effort that build a sense of community — and that’s exactly what we’re all about. We’re sure the judges for this year’s Gosport in Bloom competition will be impressed!”