Sensory garden to open in Exmouth

See, feel, perhaps even taste the plants!

A 'sensory garden’ that can help physically and mentally vulnerable people is to be unveiled on Exmouth seafront.

As well as new plants and flower, a brightly coloured mural featuring animals and plants are going into the sunken gardens next to Exmouth Pavilion.

Exmouth in Bloom and Exmouth Art Group have taken two years to create the space, which can be enjoyed as much by residents and visitors as well as people who benefit from sensory stimulation. People ca feel the various of the plants, in some cases even tasting them - herbs, for example.

The long-term vision for the garden is that it will continue to develop, being maintained by the groups and the community, maturing within the landscape, becoming a place to meet up with friends, be a destination for calming thoughts and mindfulness, and a sociable space for those who may experience loneliness.

Graham Bell, horticultural advisor for Exmouth in Bloom, said: “This area is accessible to everyone at all times of the day and looks out over the beach and views beyond. It will keep on getting better and better”.

Gillie Newcombe, president of Exmouth Art Group, added: “After what has been an awful 18 months for everyone, the sensory garden comes at a time when so many people will appreciate it.

"We are also celebrating Exmouth Art Group’s 75th anniversary and Exmouth in Bloom’s 50th anniversary this year, so we are immensely proud to be able to finally unveil the results of another successful project together”.

The project was helped to fruition by East Devon District Council, Exmouth Chamber of Commerce, Exmouth Town Council and local businesses.

The sensory garden will be officially opened on Monday 12 July at 2.30pm by the chairman of Devon County Council and councillor for Exmouth, Jeff Trail.