The BBC’s latest gardening programme recently launched a bid to protect a dying species – the British front garden. It has been revealed that one episode of the Great British Garden Revival will focus on rejuvenating green spaces in front of the home, which are increasingly being paved over either for house extensions or parking spaces.
Front gardens were once an important and practical feature of the home, keeping passing traffic at arm’s length and providing places to grow flowers or chat with neighbours.
Growth of car ownership, however, has seen many people sacrifice the lawns at the front of their property in favour of parking space. In the past 25 years, it’s estimated that about four million front gardens have been lost nationwide – equivalent to 100 Hyde Parks.
“In the past our front gardens were highly valued and we used them to show off our horticultural prowess,” said presenter and gardener Joe Swift.
“Flowers, plants and vegetables were grown and gardens made streets look attractive and colourful. It’s a shame and there has been no real champion for the front garden. We are having a call to arms to encourage people to have a rethink.”
