The Drill Hall Gardens Revitalisation project aims to transform a neglected historical site in Chester City Centre into a vibrant, welcoming space for residents and visitors.

Helen Foden of Bridgegate East Residents Association is leading the charge to restore the neglected garden, which sits at the back of the historic Drill Hall on Albion street. Only the frontage of the Drill Hall (built 1868) now remains with the rear of the building sold and converted into apartments in the 1980s. Says Helen: “The garden was part of the old Drill Hall, where volunteer troops from the First World War went off to the Western Front, so it has a rich historical significance but over the years its been neglected. The area could be a beautiful space for the community. For a number of years the area has seen an increase in anti social behaviour. We are trying to make something positive out of the site.“

The site is owned by the Council who retained the ownership following the conversion of the Drill Hall. Having been neglected for years, the gardens are now overgrown, and marred by damaged brickwork and uneven paving stones. The volunteers are seeking funding via Spacehive and have also made an application for council funding. The plans include new signage and historical interpretation boards, with the Cheshire Military Museum keen to be involved. Alongside structural repairs, new seating is planned, with ecological features such as native planting, bat/bird boxes, and bug hotels. By blending heritage with nature, the initiative aspires to foster community engagement, promote biodiversity, and create a serene haven that celebrates the area’s historical and environmental significance.

The project has been supported by local businesses including Chester Zoo, Dandy’s and Rooftop Social. The group are continuing to fundraise with the council’s assessment for funding delayed until October.

“We are looking for volunteers. anyway that likes gardening or likes getting involved in the community. Anyone that’s good at admin or writing grant applications. we will welcome everybody. The best way to contribute financially is via the spacehive page. Even just sharing the page and raising awareness of the project is massively helpful. Its not something that is peoples line of sight, but it is visible from the city walls. This could be a valuable asset to the city but its been forgotten”

You can donate towards the project here :

https://www.spacehive.com/drill-hall-gardens-renewal-project