Jess Asato MP Backs Crown Score Community Garden Restoration — Reviving Lowestoft’s Historic Hanging Kitchen Garden

Jess Asato MP recently visited the Crown Score Community Garden in Lowestoft to celebrate a grassroots project aiming to restore one of the town’s most unique heritage sites. Led by local resident Harry Grainger, the community-driven effort is breathing new life into the centuries-old terraced "Hanging Kitchen Garden," returning it to its Georgian roots as a vibrant, functional green space.

With council funding secured, the project is gaining momentum. The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) are providing hands-on support, coordinating monthly volunteer sessions and offering practical advice on sustainable gardening and community-led greening.

The Crown Score site—located on steeply terraced land just below Crown House—had been largely neglected for decades. Its restoration is particularly important for the area, which is densely populated with flats and bedsits offering residents little or no outdoor space. Although previous attempts to establish community gardens had struggled, the availability of this historic plot has provided a unique chance for the neighbourhood to reconnect with nature and heritage.

Jess Asato MP said: "Crown Score is such a historic and special spot—it's fantastic to see the community coming together to bring it back to life and celebrate Lowestoft’s heritage."

The project’s goal is to recreate a traditional Georgian kitchen garden, staying true to the land's original purpose. Edible planting, native species, and tree-supported terracing are being combined to create a sustainable and beautiful communal space.

Local supporter and property expert Danny Steel of Steel & Co has also played a key role in the project’s early stages. Harry Grainger commented: "A big thank you to Danny Steel, who's been incredibly helpful in getting this all in order. His local insight and practical support have made a real difference."

The garden’s revival has attracted strong backing from various local councils, all of which have committed resources and encouragement to ensure its success.

Get Involved

Crown Score Community Garden welcomes new volunteers and members! Regular workdays take place on the first Wednesday of every month, between 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM, at Crown Score.

From design to planting and harvesting, local residents are shaping the future of this important community space.

If you would like to help restore this historic garden and create a new public space for recreation, food growing, and nature, please contact:

Harry via:

· The Mayfly Café, 72 High Street, Lowestoft

· Email: LNCCG24@gmail.com

· Website: mosteasterlycommunitygroup.co.uk