A dedicated gardener who spent eight years single-handedly transforming a derelict footpath into a cherished 'secret garden' has been ordered to vacate the site after officials raised concerns about 'invasive bamboo' and safety hazards.
Eight Years of Passionate Work
Jim Gardner, 60, has poured his time, money, and passion into the once-neglected cut-through in Poole, Dorset, since 2016. What was previously an overgrown lane prone to vandalism is now a vibrant wildlife haven, bursting with wildflowers, exotic shrubs, and seasonal colour, even attracting newts.
Working under a gentleman's agreement with the landowner, Bournemouth and Poole College, Mr Gardner footed every cost himself. His efforts earned him several awards and the deep admiration of the local community, who cherished the transformed space.
The Abrupt Eviction Notice
Despite his hard work, the arrangement collapsed dramatically this year. Mr Gardner was slapped with a formal solicitor's letter instructing him to vacate the site by February and remove all his belongings.
The legal notice cited 'safety reasons' and specifically mentioned the planting of invasive bamboo, the affixing of items to protected trees, and the creation of marsh areas and a pond. The college also pointed to complaints from a neighbour about bamboo roots and concerns about a rat infestation, reduced visibility, and an exposed open drain cover with a three-metre drop.
A Gardener's Heartbreak
Mr Gardner, who lives near the garden, expressed his profound disappointment. 'It was a rough, untidy lane covered in weeds before I started,' he said. 'It attracted vandals, and women didn't feel safe walking through it.'
He explained that the ordeal has traumatised him to the point that it 'brings tears to my eyes for the wrong reasons.' He feels the college acted like 'bullies' and could have worked with him to resolve the issues, such as removing the bamboo, rather than involving solicitors. 'I just did a good deed and have had no thanks at all,' he lamented.
He also disputed the claim that his garden was to blame for rats, suggesting instead that litter dropped in the area was the cause.
The College's Stance
In a statement, Bournemouth and Poole College praised Jim for his efforts but stated that reports from neighbours and routine inspections had identified multiple issues.
'We're also concerned about waterlogged ground and unsafe installations,' a spokesperson said. 'While we recognise the time and care invested, safety and environmental risks, along with complaints, mean the informal arrangement can no longer continue.'
The college confirmed it had given a three-month notice period for the removal of items and stated that it had updated neighbours, receiving positive feedback.
Mr Gardner's future involvement with the space he lovingly cultivated for nearly a decade now hangs in the balance, marking a sudden and sad end to his voluntary work.
