Unused land at the Child Development Centre in Kempson is being transformed into a dream garden – as envisioned by the children who use it
An imaginative project is bringing extra colour and life to a small corner of Bedford. Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) were asked what would feature in their ‘dream garden’. Their imaginative, creative suggestions are now being made a reality.

Work under way on the Garden of Dreams in Kempson, photo courtesy of Bedford Borough Council
The Garden of Dreams initiative has taken charge of unused land at the Child Development Centre, which serves children with developmental needs and disabilities from across north and mid-Bedfordshire. A wide range of professionals from health, education and Bedford Borough Parent Carer Forum are based there or visit regularly.
By transforming the unused land at the centre into a dream garden, children visiting the centre have a more enjoyable experience – it can even be a treat.
The Garden of Dreams already boasts a sunken trampoline, nest swing, immersive sand play, mud kitchen, inclusive climbing frame, stream, jungle adventure track and a lookout tower. Recently, council staff and councillors, staff, volunteers and young people took part in special event to plant all sorts of herbs and edibles, as well as what’s being called the ‘jungle’.
Cllr Jane Walker, Portfolio Holder for Valuing Families, Children’s Services at Bedford Borough Council, says: ‘The garden will be used by children and young people with SEND, their families and therapists and teachers from the Child Development Centre. But we have ambitions to use it in a wider context too, with Special Saturdays and Stay and Play events, as well as to support well-being.
‘It was inspiring to have so many people taking part in our Planting For Pleasure day, including young people who use the centre and people from The Friends of the CDC, Brewpoint and Early Help, students from the SSG, as well as NHS staff.
‘If you want to experience the garden with your own children or young people who have SEND, or if you are keen gardener and want to help us care for the space, please get in touch and we can try to make your dream a reality too! Email EYST@bedford.gov.uk.’
In related news: