In early 2025, QUICKBLOCK was proud to support the Mayfield Community Centre and Library in Stirling, helping to transform a once-forgotten outdoor area into a vibrant and welcoming community garden.
building a space for everyone
Back in February 2025, the QUICKBLOCK team visited Alex at St Ninians Library to deliver and help build a new seating area and planters for their outdoor space. We donated a supply of QUICKBLOCK, and some of the community assisted to create a bench and three modular planters, simple, sturdy, and reconfigurable structures that can be adapted as the garden evolves.
The planters were finished with capping pieces, creating comfortable seating options for visitors and those with limited mobility, ensuring the space remains accessible and inclusive for all.
growing together
Over the summer, the community began planting vegetables, fruits, and flowers, transforming the space into a living, productive garden. The project has since grown, due to collaboration with Forth Valley Men Shed and assistance from Cilips Green Libraries grant, plus many other local gardening groups, creating connections across the community.
When we returned in August 2025, we were amazed by the transformation, what was once unused ground had become a blooming secret garden full of life, colour, and conversation.
from forgotten grounds to community hub
The garden has already had a huge impact on the many groups who use the Mayfield Community Centre and Library. For years, the courtyard behind the building was overgrown and unused, but thanks to the dedication of the Friends of the Mayfield and their partners, it’s now a thriving green space where people come together to learn, relax, and connect.
The garden is now used for a wide range of community activities, including:
- Children’s events and learning sessions, such as seed-library launches, school visits, and creative workshops.
- Social gatherings and craft sessions, from mosaic-making to “Writers in the Garden” events.
- Quiet spaces for reflection and reading, where visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings in comfort and safety.
Accessibility has been central to the project’s design, the garden features raised beds, accessible paths, and multi-level seating, ensuring everyone can enjoy the space regardless of age or mobility.
The Friends of the Mayfield continue to develop and improve the garden, using it as an educational hub that brings together environmental learning, community wellbeing, and sustainability. They’re working with partners like Treelink Stirling, The Butterfly Conservation, and The Conservation Volunteers, combining practical gardening with themes such as biodiversity, upcycling, and outdoor education.
Their innovative Seed Library invites residents to donate or collect seeds, encouraging sustainable growing and a sense of shared stewardship for the garden. It’s a true example of how small spaces can make a big difference.
a lasting impact
Today, the Mayfield Secret Garden stands as a testament to collaboration, creativity, and community spirit. What was once neglected ground is now a flourishing space that supports learning, wellbeing, and connection, and QUICKBLOCK is proud to have played a small part in helping it grow.
You can read more about their incredible work here: www.friendsofthemayfield.co.uk.
"Our aim was to create a space that everyone could enjoy – a garden that is inclusive as it is inspiring. Thanks to the generosity of QUICKBLOCK and the enthusiasm of our local community, we now have a thriving outdoor classroom, a peaceful retreat, and a living example of what working together can achieve."
Alex Galletly, Friends of the Mayfield Chairperson
helping communities grow
At QUICKBLOCK, we believe great spaces should be easy to build and accessible to all. If your community garden or local group could benefit from a quick, sustainable, and modular solution, get in touch with us today, we’d love to help bring your next project to life.
Tel: 01786 643 939
Email: info@quickblock.uk