A hands-on day building a wooden rainwater

garden planter at Buckland Road Church — no

experience needed.

Free — tools, materials & guidance provided.

Our climate is changing, and heavy downpours are becoming more common. Rather than digging into the ground, we'll be building a raised wooden planter — filled with layers of gravel, sand and compost — to catch rainwater from the church roof.

The water filters slowly through the layers instead of rushing straight into the drains, reducing the risk of flooding and damp. Once planted up with water- and shade-tolerant plants, it becomes a lovely new habitat for wildlife too.

WHAT TO EXPECT

No experience needed — we'll show you everything

Building the wooden planter structure together

Filling with gravel, sand and compost, then planting up

Tools and materials provided — just bring gloves and clothes you don't mind getting muddy

PART OF A BIGGER STORY

This rainwater garden planter is the first step in a hands-on partnership between Dorset Retrofit Hub and Buckland Road Church to retrofit the church for a changing climate — from the building's fabric to its heating and energy systems. Everything we learn here will help us support people across Poole to retrofit their own homes too.

All welcome — bring gloves & old clothes.

Got any questions? Email info@dorsetcommunityenergy.org.uk

Description supplied by the event organiser.