Northern Roots project director Anna da Silva said: "We’re thrilled that the RHS is rescheduling RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival from July to September 2020. We’re living through unprecedented times. It’s the first time the RHS have had to cancel shows since Chelsea Flower Show was cancelled during the Second World War. We’re proud to bring the Northern Roots Oldham Garden to RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival in September for its 30th year, at what will undoubtedly be a joyous celebration."
Celebrating Oldham’s rich Industrial heritage and future-facing green ambitions, the Northern Roots Oldham Garden at RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival will showcase the UK’s largest urban farm and eco-park.
Designed by Irish designer Peter Donegan, the Northern Roots Oldham Garden embodies Oldham, incorporating York stone slabs salvaged from Oldham’s iconic Grade 2 listed Town Hall and 19th century mills, into the garden’s design.
Peter Donegan, garden designer, said: "Not to take away from the severity of where we all are right now across the globe and in Oldham, but no matter how difficult things are, a ray of sunshine and a handful of dreams are always necessary. Having the support of Ashton Road-based Park cakes, the inspirational Frank Rothwell of Manchester Cabins and a selection of Oldham’s finest business and community folk by my side as we bring the Northern Roots Oldham Garden to life, is a dream come true. Being able to showcase Oldham as a progressive and forward-thinking place at RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival in September, is a real honour."
Sponsors include Park Cakes, Miocare Group, Walker Simpson Architects, Frank Rothwell of Manchester Cabins and North Lancashire Training Group. With their support, Northern Roots has now raised a considerable portion of the £80,000 budget for the garden.
#The RHS says it has had a 500% increase in visits to its website in the first nine days of the coronavirus lockdown, with 300,000 visitors. An increase of 500% were looking at the dividing perennials page, 40% at removing moss from lawns, 40% how to sow seeds. After a third of councils stopped collecting garden waste, advice on how to compost was also in demand.