The Medical Garden

The new PFI-funded health centre in Todmorden was completed in 2009, so we approached them with the idea of creating a medical garden that the public could access at any time. Work began that very year to plan and create a community medical garden to be enjoyed by the health centre’s staff, patients and the wider community. Different teams have worked together to tame and organise this garden, despite its location meaning there wasn’t easy access to water or good storage facilities.

Most of the beds are themed, and as well as creating new ones, we now have areas for culinary, respiratory and skin herbs, and for mental well-being and women’s health. The planting here is designed to include fruit not normally found locally, including Wisley red apple trees (the apples are red right through), an elderflower tree (makes lovely champagne), and kiwi trees.

The square benches here were put in by IET during the pandemic so that medical centre staff could take a break outside. Some appointments were done here too.

Even before the medical centre opened, the prickly municipal planting was dug up and replaced by vigilante gardeners (IET). Official negotiations began, but a change of planning permission was needed that IET organised and paid for.

Spotted a problem with this area? Drop the lead person an email or contact the Incredible Edible Todmorden team and we'll sort it.

There is step free access from the car park to this area, which can be most easily accessed via the health centre carpark. Part of this area is paved with wide pathways but part has narrow, gravelled paths. Planting here is predominantly at ground level. Seating is available in this area if you need to take a break. Signage in this area is due to be replaced soon.

We're working to make our growing areas and activities as accessible as possible. If you have any access needs or feedback on how we can improve our spaces, please feel free to get in touch.