…says Sara Lavis, one of the compost monitors at Uggle Lane community composting demo site.
Three new compost bins have been installed at “A Place for Nature” in Uggle Lane (a green space developed by Lancaster City Council), near the Scotforth Road (A6) entrance.
The idea for the bins came out of a meeting of the Uggle Lane Friends group, where we discussed our hopes for the new space. Diana McIntyre from Closing Loops gave a talk about community composting and the many benefits it could bring to the area.
During the launch day in November 2024, residents from nearby streets came together to help build and position the bins. The rodent-proof bins are suitable for both cooked and raw food scraps.
The launch coincided with bulb planting around the area, something we can now enjoy the results of as spring brings the space to life. Residents were encouraged to sign up to the scheme, received an induction on suitable materials and were offered a new compost caddy. We also recruited four “compost monitors.” Their role is to welcome new members, explain how the system works, check the materials going into the bins, and turn the compost regularly. Many of us already compost at home, but being part of a shared scheme has deepened our knowledge and sparked new learning.
Being part of the initiative gives people a sense of ownership. Personally, I’ve found it really satisfying to turn our raw kitchen waste into something useful – and even better, to share that end product with neighbours.
As a new housing development is currently being built nearby, adding more pressure to the climate, our local environment and waste systems, this scheme is an excellent way for residents to make a difference. It offers a practical way to get engaged with alternative waste management and waste reduction. It also means being part of a friendly community and visiting a local nature area.
A walk to the compost bins is not onerous and can in fact be a nice excuse to get outside during the winter months. As one of my neighbours joked, “Taking your rubbish for a walk?” Well, yes! It gets you out, gets you talking and often, gets you laughing.
Uggle Lane Friends are proud to be part of the wider composting community in the Lancaster area. It’s about more than just compost – it’s about building community. And yes, we do love coming together for our annual compost gathering, especially when there’s homemade cake involved!
Visit foodfutures.org.uk/composting to discover more, download free resources, find a local scheme near you, or request support in starting your own initiative.
Or you can download a free case study here on how to start a community composting initiative.
