Chelmsley's balconies project to feature on BBC show

LEAF IT TO US: The balconies at Fillingham Court, in Chelmsley Wood,
have been transformed 

A PROJECT to create balcony gardens at a Chelmsley Wood-based social housing scheme will feature on a prime time BBC programme this week.
Gardeners' World will be reporting on the work that has been done to bring a splash of colour to residents at Fillingham Court.
A total of three balconies have been transformed at the building, with one modelled on a cottage garden and the other using more exotic greenery. The third balcony is growing food plants.
The scheme, which has received funding from WM Housing, the National Lottery and National Grid, is the brainchild of the North Solihull-based community interest company Gro-Organic.
Stacey Sammons, the project lead, has been working with the residents of the three-floor apartment block since the start of the year.
"The work on the balconies is the culmination of six months’ consultation with the residents which has helped build community spirit and boost their well-being," she said.
"We’re really excited about this project and it will be great for the residents to feature on Gardeners’ World."
Residents Carol Panton, aged 67, and Phil Roberts, 70, have helped design the Victorian oasis balcony garden, which imitates the decor of their ground-floor apartment.
Carol, who played a key part in the design and planning, said: "It’s been a real focus for me this last few weeks and I’m looking forward to being on camera and determined to play a full part in the planting.
"I’m very happy with all the ideas and plants chosen, except I did draw the line at geraniums!”
The Gro-Organic team is also working with residents to improve the site's communal gardens and has plans to give a makeover to other verandas.
Gardeners’ World is broadcast on BBC2 this Wednesday (July 25), from 9pm.