Peabody’s Kerslake Award funds community garden makeover in Cambridge

A resident of Cockcroft Place in Cambridge has used a new grant from not-for-profit housing association Peabody to transform a nearby community garden for local people to enjoy. 

Published: 16/09/2025

Sarah has lived in Cockcroft Place for over 20 years. The homes surround a central green with mature trees and borders around the estate. Several residents are keen gardeners, and many enjoy the outdoor space.  

Keen to help brighten up the garden, Sarah applied for funding through The Kerslake Award. The award offers grants for community projects and activities, in memory of Peabody’s late Chair, Lord Bob Kerslake. The fund is open to local people, charities and community organisations who have ideas for projects or events that help Peabody residents.  

Sarah secured a grant of £1,500, which with the help of plant expert Andrew at nearby Coton Orchard Garden Centre, she and other residents chose a variety of plants and shrubs suitable for the project. Particular favourites were the lavender and herbs which will bring colour and scent for years to come. The garden centre also kindly donated a large jasmine plant and Peabody’s Estate team helped with the planting. 

Nine other residents joined Sarah and the team to help with the digging and planting.  
Sarah said: “Many residents enjoy the garden and I wanted to add some more colour and interest to the beds and pots. The garden brings the community together. It’s a lovely space where people meet and chat in passing. Seeing the new plants has inspired other residents to get involved. Many of us are watering the new plants during the especially hot weather.” 

Sarah is also a keen crafter and has painted pebbles to mark the project, which she plans to place around the garden. 

The fund will open for the next round of applications in early November.  

Find out more about the Kerslake Award