An apiary and sensory garden has opened on the rooftop of a Bolton shopping centre.

Market Place Shopping Centre has teamed up with charity Breaking Barriers NW for the attraction.

The unique facility aims to integrate nature with urban living, creating a peaceful area where people can connect with the environment and immerse themselves in the sensory activities.

The rooftop space is designed to offer people a unique and interactive experience, different from others in the area.

Visitors can observe the fascinating activity of honeybees and explore the beautifully designed sensory garden, which features vegetable patches, sensory areas, and a fountain adorned with a 3D-printed logo of the centre.

People need to book spaces with the shopping centre to visit the attraction.

The new garden areaThe new garden area (Image: NQ) The site will also provide educational opportunities about the importance of bees and their role in the ecosystem.

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Bolton College carpentry and joinery students were approached by the centre manager who asked the learners to get involved in making some of the flower box planters.

And they got involved as the Level 1 students need to complete a youth social action project as part of their course.

Michael Geelan was one of creators of the garden as he set to work building and putting together the space including building the benches, planters and more.

From school groups to sensory groups and the elderly, the project fosters community engagement and inclusivity.

Breaking Barriers NW, known for its dedication to creating inclusive and engaging community projects, have brought its expertise to ensure the garden is accessible and beneficial for all.

The team behind the new areaThe team behind the new area (Image: NQ) Steph Sharratt, of Breaking Barriers NW, said: “This project is a perfect example of how urban spaces can be transformed into vibrant, educational, and inclusive environments.

"We are proud to contribute to such a meaningful initiative that brings people together and promotes environmental awareness."

Rachel Townsend, general manager at Market Place, said: “This exciting new addition to our centre makes a big difference in improving the green space here at Market Place and encourages community engagement, which is something we are passionate about in the centre.”

For more information or to book spaces visit 01204 361100 or email megan@marketplacebolton.co.uk.


If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on X @chloewjourno.