Visitors to Gateshead’s Saltwell Park can now enjoy a newly developed Japanese Garden thanks to construction apprentices from The Gateshead Housing Company.
The team of apprentices has been working hard to develop the oriental garden which was created in 2008 to mark the twenty-year anniversary of the twinning arrangement between Gateshead and Komatsu City.
The garden, originally designed by Japanese designers Hiro Kitamura and Susumu Kitayama, includes a gravel pond, waterfalls and stone lanterns.
The renovation project included excavating the grass and soil area, spreading decorative stones, laying concrete, building new fencing and replacing decorative pebbles.
Paul Richmond, Principal Contract Surveyor for the housing company said: “The apprentices have done a brilliant job on the garden.
“They faced quite a challenge to source the exact stones used by the Japanese gardeners and to replicate the flow of water down the dry stone waterfall by using different sized cobble stones.
“The effect they achieved was fantastic. Their hard work and attention to detail is highly commendable.”
The Gateshead Housing Company offers a range of apprenticeships which provide the opportunity to achieve a successful and rewarding career in local government.
To find out more about apprenticeships with The Gateshead Housing Company call 0191 433 7354 or email apprencticeships@gatesheadhousing.co.uk