There’s cause for celebration at Bishop Auckland Hospital, where the Community Garden has been named a 2026 Northumbria in Bloom winner, taking the award for Grounds of Hospitals, Universities and other Public Buildings.
What was once an underused area has been transformed into a welcoming outdoor space for patients, families, visitors and colleagues.
The garden includes a dedicated reflection area, offering a peaceful, non-clinical environment where people can relax, spend time together or simply take some time away out of the hospital.
The garden has a strong community and environmental focus too, with a community orchard, wildflower areas, bird boxes created by students from King James I Academy, bug hotels decorated by pupils from Cockton Hill Primary School and a mural created by a local Durham artist.
It has been a real partnership effort, bringing together the PFI partner ISS, CDDFT colleagues, local schools, community volunteers, local artists and other partners.
A special mention also goes to Steve Briggs from ISS, whose passion for horticulture and ongoing care helps keep the garden looking its best throughout the year.
Congratulations and thank you to everyone involved and well-deserved recognition.
