Garden of memory blooms in Cramlington

A Northumberland landscaping firm has completed a new sensory garden designed to support dementia care and community wellbeing.

Brambledown Landscape Services has worked with Johnsons Nurseries to deliver a dementia-friendly garden at Coronation Park, in Cramlington, as part of a £3.5 million regeneration programme for the town, led by Northumberland County Council. 

Designed by Natasha McEwen of TGP Landscape Architects, in partnership with Cramlington Town Council, the project was supported by the UK Government’s Community Ownership Fund.

The garden, located on the former Parkside School playing field, features PEFC-certified oak structures, resin pathways, accessible seating and more than 2000 sensory plants to create a safe, accessible and therapeutic green space for individuals living with dementia, as well as their families and carers.

Planting was chosen to offer year-round interest and aid navigation, with varieties including geraniums, salvias, lavender and hellebores.

Paul Curry, director at Brambledown Landscape Services, said: “This has been one of the most rewarding projects we’ve delivered in recent years. 

“Creating a space that’s both beautiful and accessible, while also supporting the specific needs of those living with dementia, is something we’re incredibly proud of. 

“Every detail – from the layout to the colours and textures – was chosen with care to ensure the garden feels safe, calming, and engaging for all who use it.”

Graham Richardson, managing director of Johnsons Nurseries, added: “We were delighted to support Brambledown on such a meaningful and community-focused project. 

“We’ve worked with Brambledown for over 50 years on a wide range of landscape schemes, and it’s always a pleasure to be involved in projects that deliver genuine social value. 

“We hope it will benefit the community for years to come.”

Opened by Her Grace the Duchess of Northumberland, alongside the mayor of Cramlington and other local representatives on May 19, the garden is the first step in wider plans for the site, including community allotments, an orchard, and further ecological enhancements.

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