TENANTS at a Paisley high rise are enjoying a blooming lovely garden thanks to generous grant.

Residents at Paisley’s Oliphant Court, which is owned and managed by Paisley Housing Association, received a £10k grant from the Scottish Procurement Alliance (SPA). This has allowed them to create a landscaped garden complete with seating areas, a raised allotment and even a barbecue.

Lorna Gilroy, Head of Housing at Paisley Housing Association, said: “The community garden project has been amazing for our residents. It’s had an extremely positive response, especially this year as it’s enabled people to easily get outside for fresh air and continue to socialise, while remaining socially distant.”

“We designed the garden so it could have a seating area, planting area, and some allotments for residents to grow their own fruit and veg. Connecting with the outdoors has really given our residents a new lease of life.

“One of the support workers for a resident said the garden is excellent as the resident is unable to walk too far and doesn’t leave his house often, so going outside for short walks in the garden is ideal.”

SPA Director, Clive Feeney, said: “The Fund is all about making an impact in our Partner’s local area, to provide opportunity and prosperity to communities which would not otherwise have the means to fund their ambitions. This year we have been particularly focused on directing the Fund to support projects that bring benefits to people whose lives have been turned upside down because of COVID-19.

“Paisley Housing Association’s ambition is precisely the types of project we encourage with our Fund, and we are delighted that we can help contribute with this boost to their community plans.”