Network Ryde Youth Service has celebrated the 5th anniversary of its allotment on Quarry Road – a project that has grown into a thriving, sustainable space for young people across the Isle of Wight.
To mark the occasion on Thursday 28th August, a special ‘open allotment afternoon’ was held, welcoming young people, volunteers and supporters for a day of reflection and celebration. Activities included guided tours of the allotment, pond dipping, and cakes made using produce grown on site.
The allotment first began in August 2020 as a positive initiative during the Covid-19 pandemic, in response to many young people lacking access to outdoor spaces. Initial funding from Sovereign Housing Association’s Community Grants Programme enabled Network Ryde to clear and transform the site.
What was once overrun with nettles and weeds is now home to raised beds, a shed, polytunnel, greenhouse, wormery, and even a living willow dome. The space supports both personal development and biodiversity, with wildflower planting, bird feeders, and natural habitats encouraging local wildlife.
Over the last 5 years, the allotment has supported a wide range of activities including Duke of Edinburgh’s Award placements, home education sessions, and involvement in Biosphere Festivals. It has also helped to strengthen intergenerational ties with other allotment holders who share advice, seeds and plants with young people.
Young people are also able to cook with their produce at the Network Ryde youth centre’s accessible kitchen. Any surplus fruit and vegetables are donated to Aspire Ryde, contributing to their community lunches.
Jo Johnson, Deputy Manager at Network Ryde Youth Service, has said:
“Our allotment is more than just a growing space – it’s a place of learning, sharing, and wellbeing for our young people and team. We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved over the past five years, and to the dedication of our fantastic allotment team (John, Briony and Gaz), and look forward to seeing it continue to grow as part of our wider community. Thank you to everyone that has made this journey possible.”
Network Ryde is Ryde Town Council’s youth provision for young people aged 11-18, offering free activities, support and safe spaces from its base at the former St. Thomas’ Church in Ryde.
Weekly allotment sessions are held on Saturdays from 10:00-12:00 for all young people in school years 7-13, and on Wednesdays from 11:00-13:00 for home-educated young people aged 11-18.
More information can be found at www.networkryde.co.uk.
