A much-loved feature at Summerwood Lane Community Gardens is back in action after volunteers completed the construction of a brand-new clay pizza oven.
Located within the Summerwood Lane Allotments, the not-for-profit Summerwood Lane Community Gardens were established in 2012 to provide Clifton residents with opportunities to learn about growing food and enjoy the outdoors. Since then, the gardens have grown into a valuable community resource, offering weekly volunteering sessions, family activities, holiday events and free children’s sessions throughout the year.
The original pizza oven, built when the gardens first opened, quickly became a favourite attraction, bringing people together over freshly cooked pizzas during community events and volunteer days. After more than 10 years of regular use, however, the oven had deteriorated beyond repair.
After months of research and planning, work began in August 2025, with the new clay oven completed within 3 months.
The project was made possible through funding from the National Lottery and other fundraising, together with the generous support of local building supplier John A Stephens. The company donated construction materials and equipment worth around half of the total project value, making a significant contribution to the build. Everyone at the gardens would like to thank John A Stephens for their generous support.
The new oven has already been used on several occasions and has proved every bit as popular as its predecessor. It is regularly fired up during volunteer days and corporate volunteering events and has become a highlight of the gardens’ Thursday family sessions.
These include Muddy Boots, a free outdoor play session for children under five from 11am to 1pm, and Wild Wellies, an after-school nature session for older children. All sessions are free to attend.
Garden Manager, Audrey Leach said: “The gardens continue to provide a welcoming space where local people can learn new skills, enjoy nature and spend time together, with volunteers playing a vital role in everything they achieve.”
Residents will have an opportunity to see the new oven in action at the Summerwood Community Gardens Jumble Fundraiser on Saturday 29 August, from 11am to 3pm. Organisers hope to be serving wood-fired pizzas during the event, subject to the current council fire restrictions being lifted following the recent prolonged dry weather.
New volunteers are always welcome to join the weekly Wednesday sessions and help support this thriving community resource.
If you have any questions or would like to find out more, please visit the Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/share/1DtWENLgE2/