SCCoop at The Rookery in Streatham

26 February 2015

Written by: Dom Leary - Head Gardener and Manager of SCCoop

Arts, culture and events - Focus on Streatham - Opportunities

The Streatham Common Co-operative (SCCoop) is a new, not for profit social enterprise. On 8 February this year we took on the management of the Rookery on Streatham Common and are now looking after and improving the horticulture and wildlife in the Rookery.

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SCCoop at The Rookery in Streatham

We work closely with the local community hosting events and activities and providing opportunities for people to volunteer their time.

Volunteers recently won funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund. This has allowed them to design and plant up the White Garden, apparently one of the first white themed gardens, long before the famous Sissinghurst white garden. Volunteering sessions are a friendly affair with a really good turn-out. The group are now working on the Old English Garden which promises an exciting a colourful range of planting.

We have recruited a great team. The site has a dedicated head gardener / manager. We have an assistant head gardener who served his apprenticeship at Holland Park and Buckingham Palace Gardens and a part-time groundsperson.

We are also recruiting an apprentice who, whilst working with us in the garden will spend one day a week studying for a horticultural qualification.

All of the staff have a keen interest in plants and horticulture – now, there’s a novel idea employing people with an interest in plants to work in a garden!

The real strength of SCCoop is the connection we have with the community. We have a membership of over 300 people. Over 60 people turned up to our AGM and engaged in a really lively debate. We also work closely with the Friends of Streatham Common and the Streatham Common Community Garden.

Get involved

You too can become a member of SCCoop. It only costs £1 to buy a share which you can do at our website www.sccoop.org.uk

As a member you’ll receive a regular newsletter detailing the activities and volunteering opportunities available. You are able to vote at our AGM and,  perhaps, even consider standing for election as a Director of SCCoop.

And what a fabulous place to work. The Rookery is a true hidden gem you really should find the time the visit. And if you do, make sure you say hi.

Culture2020 Conversation

Do you have views on the future of libraries in Lambeth? The council is currently holding a wide ranging consultation on the future of cultural services in the borough – looking at how we can make the most of our local parks, libraries, sports facilities and more.

You can find out all about the consultation at www.lambeth.gov.uk/culture2020consultation – including events being held across the borough and how to complete a questionnaire.

Streatham event

  • The Culture2020 Conversation event in Streatham takes place on Monday 2nd March, 7 to 9pm at Streatham Library.
  • This is an opportunity to discuss all the proposals with council officers and the cabinet member and includes a theme workshop on town centre libraries.
  • The event is open to all but if you can, please register to help us to plan for the numbers who want to attend

Other events will be taking place across the borough and will include other theme workshops – visit www.lambeth.gov.uk/culture2020consultation.