New garden feature at Lockkeeper’s Cottage, Toome

TIDAL Toome, the vibrant community group in the area, has been continually working to provide and improve services for the village and the surrounding rural area for almost 30 years.  

Funding from the Housing Executive’s Community Cohesion Unit has helped them create the kiddies cottage garden play area at the front of the Lockkeeper’s Cottage, increasing the appeal of this busy social enterprise café on the banks of the River Bann.

Una Johnston, Director of TIDAL Toome, explains how the children’s section of the garden has flourished.  She said:

“When a staff member suggested a children’s section outside the café it made perfect sense.  We have a Mothers and Toddlers group and a Tiny Steps group for young and expectant mothers that meet weekly, and a safe play area for them and all the children visiting the cottage was missing.

“The large wooden boat seating area is a natural draw for curious youngsters, and we also have a biodiversity station, a ‘bug’ hotel, large chalk boards and plenty of plants and shrubs in decorated pots.

“The Lockkeeper’s Cottage is a positive focus for residents living here - the four local primary schools benefit from environmental education here and many local groups use the café as a meeting place.  Waterways Ireland use the cottage as a base for many of their biodiversity walks down the Toome Canal Walk.

“We’re delighted to learn we have been nominated for Café of the Year in the Staycation Awards NI 2022.”

Children from St Oliver Plunkett Primary School were one of four local schools involved in the planning and creation of the garden, and were excited to visit the kiddies’ cottage garden earlier this month to see the finished garden.

Housing Executive Good Relations Officer, Stephen Gamble also attended the visit with Una and the children.  He said:

“Una is an amazing ambassador for Toome and the communities in the area.

“The success of the kiddies’ cottage garden is another string in the bow for the café which is doing really well.  It has become a focal point in the community, with really popular events like the Lough Neagh Artisans Market taking place this year so far.  

“This is a prime example of how community strengths can develop and effect change for the better.  The funding the Housing Executive has provided, along with other local partner agencies, here has truly made a difference and put Toome on the map again.”

You can also view a short video of the kiddies’ cottage garden.