Work has started to transform an area of the Huddersfield Royal Infirmary site into a tranquil wellbeing and relaxation garden for colleagues, patients and visitors alike.

The garden is being developed on the North East of the site behind the new A&E building, and has been funded thanks to a combination of NHS Charities Together grant funding and donations from individuals and businesses to CHFT's Charity.

The landscaping works are taking place on the site of the old nurses' accommodation, which is currently just an area of grass. 

The space will be split into seven zones, providing spaces for socialising and gentle exercise, as well as seclusion and reflection. The designated areas will be:

• Arrival and sensory space
• Meeting and social zone
• Activity group zone
• Wildlife maze zone
• Physiotherapy space
• Wild flower area
• Quiet seating space

CHFT Charity Manager, Emma Kovaleski, said: "We've had plans to develop a wellbeing garden since the start of the pandemic, and I'm thrilled that we're now able to make this dream a reality.

"We know that being able to spend time outdoors can have a real impact on people's wellbeing, and soon our colleagues, patients and their loved ones will be able to enjoy this beautiful space." 

Disruption during the project is expected to be minimal, however a small number of car parking spaces at the rear of HRI have been temporarily cordoned off for the contractor's compound. We have appointed a company called Horticon to carry out the works.

The garden is expected to be finished by the early summer.