'The GUEST Wildlife Garden is one of the green treasures of the West End that you can find hidden between two University of Glasgow buildings. Its history, as well as its location, is difficult to find.
Before becoming part of the University, the garden was used as the nearby church’s backyard; it then became alternatively a tennis court, a walking path and a wild barbecue site. The space was left unused for some time and then finally acquired its name of ‘Wildlife garden’. It is now the home of many wildlife species which are observed and monitored by Biodiversity staff and zoology students. The garden includes a pond where you can see hundreds of tadpoles in spring, raised garden beds, fruit bushes and wildflowers blooming all over the place.
If it is true that its enclosed position makes it a perfect site for nature preservation, the isolated garden
has also suffered neglect and vandalism.
The work done in the garden this past year arises from a wish to make it better known by students and the surrounding community and to develop a peaceful natural place within the urban area. It was with this idea in mind that Louise McVey and Agnes Jones created the set of metal sculptures and ceramics that can be seen in the garden. They, along with the University’s Green Technicians, Froglife and many volunteers, have been active participants in the garden’s life. Regular gardening and social sessions are hosted there and give opportunities to learn about the local biodiversity and meet people from the area.
I believe that as people discover the garden, they will know how to appreciate its wildlife and its tranquillity. As cities grow, spaces like this one need to be highlighted and the harmony between nature and community they offer needs to be preserved.
Marie Vendrome, GUEST biodiversity Promoter 2021-2022'
