A NEW initiative to brighten up Basingstoke and Deane was launched in Oakridge on Monday.

Set up by Dove House Post 16, a specialist provision for learners aged 16-19 with learning difficulties, growing Basingstoke aims to start regenerating areas around Oakridge.

The launch saw the start of transforming the alleyways of Oakridge to improve them for the residents and future generations.

With support from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, VIVID, Travis Perkins, AVS Fencing, Inhurst Landscapes, Tesco’s Bags of Help, Basingstoke Men’s Shed and the Royal Horticultural Society’s Greening Grey Britain Campaign, everyone involved mucked in ensuring the job was completed to a high standard and will be something residents can be proud of for years to come.

At the launch on Monday, students from Dove House Post 16, working with the Royal Horticulture Society built three new planters ready to be field with fresh produce.

As well as regenerating alleyways and producing fruit and veg, the project aims to provide students with vital skills to either help them gain apprenticeships or employment.

Hannah Stroud, head of Dove House Post 16, said: “All the students love doing the gardening, as it helps them use their practical and communications skills.

“Also, the feedback that they get makes them feel really proud in what they are doing.”

Norden ward councillors Paul Harvey and Laura James have been working closely with the project and are confident that the regeneration will help make residents proud of their community.

Cllr Harvey said: “There are so many elements to this project. The community gets the benefit of seeing the regeneration of the alleyways and the students get to learn vital skills.

“Everyone is proud of Oakridge and this will allow the community to grow in a positive way.”