Template:Courier-OCT-25-21a

'OASIS OF PEACE' OPENS UP

The gates to a new pathway in Claygate are opening as Holy Trinity Church's Way Maker Project becomes a reality. It means the community will be able to share the beauty and tranquillity of the churchyard, rich in history and natural life, as it is transformed into a welcorning space.

The Church's vision has been to create a place of peace, wellbeing and biodiversity, where all can feel at home, whether visiting to remember a loved one, take a quiet moment on a bench, walk a new route from Church Road to the Recreation Ground and back, or simply enjoy the wildflowers and wildlife.

Designed by Claygate's award winning garden designer, Selina Botham, the project includes a new gate and pathways linking the Recreation Ground, Pavilion Cafe and Church Road; "Peace pockets", with benches offering space to sit, reflect and enjoy the view; a wildflower meadow with paths, a new wildlife area with trees, shrubs and a shallow pond; and enhancements to the Garden of Remembrance, improving its privacy and beauty.

The project, in part, responds to the Claygate Residents' Survey, which highlighted the community's desire for green spaces, walking routes, and biodiversity. The path will open the Recreation Ground to more people, and provide a more direct route between The Green, the Church, the Pavilion, Claygate Primary School and other parts of Claygate.

As well as being a tranquil oasis of peace and calm, the project will offer educational opportunities for local schools to explore nature and history, and community gardening opportunities in the meadow. In these ways, the Way Maker path will support and strengthen the life of Claygate, creating a shared space for all to enjoy.

The Church is grateful to all who have donated, and to its supporters: Claygate Parish Council, Your Fund Surrey (sponsored by the late Mark Sugden), the Nias Wheatley Trust and several individuals. The work is scheduled to finish very soon. Find out more at: htclaygate.org/waymaker