Hillingdon Council Cabinet Member and Officer Decisions
Rural Activities Garden Centre
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Democratic Services
Location: Phase II
Ext: 0185
DDI: 01895 250185
CMD No: 1605
To: COUNCILLOR WAYNE BRIDGES
CABINET MEMBER FOR COMMUNITY &
ENVIRONMENT
COUNCILLOR JANE PALMER
CABINET MEMBER FOR HEALTH & SOCIAL
CARE
c.c. All Members of the Health and Social Care Select
Committee
c.c. Sandra Tay lor – Corporate Director of Adult
Social Care
c.c. Dan Kennedy – Corporate Director of Residents
Services
Date: 15 January 2026
Non-Key Decision request Form D
RURAL ACTIVITIES GARDEN CENTRE
Dear Cabinet Members,
Attached is a report requesting that a decision be made by you as an individual Cabinet
Member. Democratic Services confirm that this is not a key decision, as such, the Local
Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England)
Regulations 2012 notice period does not apply.
You should take a decision on or after Friday 23 January 2026 in order to meet
Constitutional requirements about publication of decisions that are to be made. You may
wish to discuss the report with the Corporate Director before it is made. Please indicate your
decision on the duplicate memo supplied and return it to me when you have made your
decision. I will then arrange for the formal notice of decision to be published.
Liz Penny
Democratic Services
Title of Report: RURAL ACTIVITIES GARDEN CENTRE
Decision made:
Reasons for your decision: (e.g. as stated in report)
Alternatives considered and rejected: (e.g. as stated in report)
Signed ……………………………………………………… Date……………………..
Cabinet Member for Community & Environment / Cabinet Member for Health & Social Care
Cabinet Member Report – 15 January 2026 Page 1
(Part 1 Public)
RURAL ACTIVITIES GARDEN CENTRE
Cabinet Member &
Portfolio
Councillor Wayne Bridges,
Cabinet Member for Community and Environment
Councillor Jane Palmer,
Cabinet Member for Health & Social Care
Responsible Officers Dan Kennedy, Corporate Director, Residents Services
Sandra Taylor, Corporate Director, Adult Social Care & Health
Report Author &
Directorate
Dan Kennedy, Corporate Director, Residents Services
Sandra Taylor, Corporate Director, Adult Social Care & Health
Papers with report Appendix 1 – Consultation Responses / Findings
Appendix 2 – Equality and Human Rights Impact Assessment
HEADLINES
Summary
The Rural Activities Garden Centre (RAGC) in West Drayton has
long provided horticultural therapy and community retail services.
Following a review, Cabinet decided in June 2025 to close the
retail element due to ongoing financial losses and agreed to
consult on future support services.
Consultation has been completed and the findings confirmed that
gardening activities are highly valued by people with learning
disabilities. To ensure value for money, the recommendation is to
refocus the activities currently provided from the RAGC site and
integrate them with the Adult Social Care & Health (ASC&H) Day
Resources service for adults with assessed social care needs and
continue support for volunteer adults with learning disabilities.
The service will not continue in its current community format but
will maintain familiar activities initially on-site, along with gardening
opportunities at the Civic Centre and other Council sites. Staffing
requirements and volunteer roles will be reviewed under the new
model.
Putting our
Residents First
Delivering on the
Council Strategy
2022-2026
This report supports our ambition for residents / the Council of:
An efficient, well-run, digital-enabled council working with partners
to deliver services to improve the lives of all our residents
This report supports our commitments to residents of:
Safe and Strong Communities
Financial Cost The RAGC required a subsidy of £137k in 2024/25 and £114k in
2025/26. This proposal seeks to operate a non-retail care-based
alternative at the site, which will save the Council c.£100k per
annum, bringing subsidy levels down to £11k and £16k over the
next two financial years.
Cabinet Member Report – 15 January 2026 Page 2
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Select Committee Health & Social Care Select Committee
Ward(s) All
RECOMMENDATIONS
That the Cabinet Member for Community & Environment, in consultation with the Cabinet
Member for Health & Social Care:
1) Have regard to the findings of the public consultation, which found overall that the
horticultural and gardening offer is valued and enjoyed by the adults with learning
disabilities attending the RAGC site;
2) Agree that the Rural Activities Garden Centre (RAGC) will transition from its current
model — which offers horticultural activities, community engagement, and
vocational opportunities - to a structured day service provision that represents a
shift from an open-access, activity-based approach to a service designed to deliver
planned, person-centred support aligned with assessed care needs. The new model
will focus on providing meaningful daytime opportunities within a framework that
meets statutory requirements and will also support volunteer adults attending the
site with a L earning Disability as part of a wider programme to promote individual
outcomes.
3) Agree that the management of the RAGC transfers to the Adult Social Care & Health
Directorate under Direct Care Services and is incorporated into the in- house day
provision and under the management and supervision of Queens Walk Resource
Centre.
4) Note and recognise the valued and significant voluntary contributions which ha ve
been made over a number of years and that the C ouncil intends to review how
volunteers can support in line with the new delivery model on offer at the site.
5) Notes from the consultation exercise , the public interest in the future use of the
RAGC site as one with community benefit and that any decision on such use should
have regard to this feedback.
Reasons for recommendation(s)
Recommendation 1 - The recommendation noting the findings from the consultation recognises
the value and enjoyment that those participating in the consultation place on the horticultural and
gardening activities available to adults with a learning disability. This includes those adults with
an assessed social care need attending the RAGC site, as well as those adults with a learning
disability who volunteer at the site. The findings from the consultation have been reviewed to
inform the recommendations for the future service offer . The consultation questions and
responses are set out in Appendix 1.
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Recommendation 2 - In considering the consultation findings and the need for the Council to
continue to meet its statutory duties under the Care Act 2014, the recommendation to the Cabinet
Member ensures that the individuals with assessed care nee ds are provided with continued
access to horticultural and gardening services. The recommendation also ensures that those
volunteers with a learning disability currently attending the site who do not have an assessed
social care need will be supported to continue to volunteer . The recommendation therefore
proposes that the current service offer changes to a new day service offer available to those
currently attending the RAGC site. The service offer from the RAGC site for existing service users
will continue with the activities they recognise including opportunities at a range of social care
sites as well as continuing with gardening at the Civic Centre.
The proposed transition from the current RAGC service , which provides horticultural activities,
some vocational opportunities and community engagement to a limited number of adults with a
varying level of need including those with an assessed social care need, to a structured,
outcomes-focused day service within ASC&H, is driven by the need to ensure sustainability, value
for money, and improved support for adults with disabilities. Current analysis shows a low number
of service users attending the RAGC site - in total 2 9 people across the week, with a daily
attendance of between 12- 17 people . A number of these people (6) at present also have a
dedicated support worker who supports them to attend and engage in gardening activities. This
is against a backdrop of high operational costs, making the existing model financially
unsustainable.
The proposed new day service model will provide targeted, needs-based activities that integrate
the Council’s current day provision strengths and staff expertise. This will be developed in close
partnership with other services to maximi se opportunities and support for those attending which
align to assessed needs, reduce staffing requirements, and achieve significant cost savings on
staffing estimated at £150k annually—while maintaining community engagement and continuity
for existing users. Consultation feedback confirms the importance of retaining services and the
revised offer will preserve this community value in a more efficient format. This approach aligns
with the Council’s duty to manage assets responsibly and provide equitable, person- centred
services that meet statutory obligations and promote independence.
Recommendation 3 - Transferring the management of the Rural Activities Garden Centre
(RAGC) to the Adult Social Care & Health Directorate under Direct Care Services and
incorporating it into the in-house day provision under Queens Walk Resource Centre ensures that
the service is delivered within an established framework that meets statutory obligations under
the Care Act 2014. This integration will provide stronger governance, operational oversight, and
consistency across the Council’s Day care provision, enabling better use of resources and staff
expertise. It will also create opportunities for service users to access a wider range of activities
and support, promoting independence and wellbeing while maintaining continuity of valued
horticultural activities . Aligning the RAGC with Queens Walk will deliver efficiencies, improve
sustainability, and ensure the service is embedded within a model designed to deliver person-
centred outcomes.
Recommendation 4 – The Council recognises that the volunteers who have and continue to
support the services offered at the RAGC are valued. The new day service offer for adults with a
learning disability from the RAGC site will most likely require a reduced and different contribution
from any volunteering offered and therefore their valued contribution and support will need to be
Cabinet Member Report – 15 January 2026 Page 4
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reviewed to ensure effective working arrangements are in place when the new delivery model at
the site is operational.
Recommendation 5 - The consultation with those using services at the RAGC site, the volunteers
and the wider public has confirmed the community value placed on the services offered. As with
all assets managed by the local authority , the Council has a duty to ensure that these are best
meeting needs and managed to deliver value for money, for all residents. Any future options for
the use of the site will be considered in due course. The priority at this stage is to transition the
current service to a structured, outcomes orientated day service provision, working closely with
the existing service users and their carers.
Alternative options considered / risk management
In considering alternative options for the current horticultural and gardening offer from the RAGC
site, a ‘no change’ option was explored. While this was the preferred option for many respondents
to the consultation and is understandable given the strong attachment to the existing service, it
was discounted for several reasons. Maintaining the current model would not best serve the
needs of adults with learning disabilities who benefit from structured, outcomes-focused support
aligned to assessed care needs.
The existing service is financially unsustainable, with high operational costs and low attendance,
and does not provide the breadth of opportunities needed to promote independence and social
interaction. In contrast, the recommended day service model will deliver tailored activities
designed to meet statutory obligations under the Care Act 2014, ensure better use of public
resources, and offer access to a wider range of diverse opportunities. Recognising that any
change can be unsettling, a carefully designed transition plan will be implemented around the
needs of individual service users, including those adults with learning disabilities who currently
attend the RAGC site but do not meet an assessed need.
Democratic compliance / previous authority
Cabinet approved the decision on 26 June 2025 to close the retail element of the Rural Activities
Garden Centre and to undertake a consultation with those using the services and those with an
interest in the site on the future of the service offer. Cabinet also agreed to delegate authority to
the Cabinet Member for Community & Environment to consider the findings of the consul tation
and to make a decision on the future of the RAGC site and any relocation of service provision
accordingly. The Cabinet Member may make any decision in consultation with other relevant
portfolio holders.
Select Committee comments
None at this stage.
Cabinet Member Report – 15 January 2026 Page 5
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SUPPORTING INFORMATION
1. By way of background, the Rural Activities Garden Centre (RAGC) was first established in
1981 and was designed to provide educational and supported learning opportunities for
residents with additional needs including learning difficulties, disabilities, and mental health
conditions with an emphasis on horticultural therapy. The C entre also used to operate as
a community retail garden centre, selling a range of local produce and seasonal plants to
the public, some of which are grown on site. Cabinet made the decision in June 2025 to
cease the retail offer as it required significant public funding subsidy each year to continue.
This was not considered the best use of public funds . The need for a retail garden centre
offer from the site is not within the scope of this report as this decision has already been
made by Cabinet.
2. The number of people attending and the frequency of attendance at the RAGC by those
with an assessed social care need using their personal budget has been reducing in recent
years. These service users have support from the RAGC staff, and, currently, 6 service
users have additional 1-1 support. Other volunteers at the site have enrolled in activities
through self -referrals, or signposting from GP services and the Adult Learning service.
While the Council has a general duty to provide universal services, there is no statutory
obligation to offer these services at the RAGC, and they are provided free of charge. The
Council can meet its duty to provide universal services at alternative provisions or in
different formats.
3. Following on from the agreement to the recommendations by Cabinet in June earlier this
year, all volunteer service users (‘gardeneers’) have been offered a social care
assessment to see if they should be in receipt of assessed social care services. A number
of service users (2) have subsequently been found to have an assessed social care need
(a total of 8 assessed social care residents now have additional support when attending
the RAGC).
4. The RAGC currently receives a substantial subsidy for services accessed by a relatively
small number of residents. In addition, the site’s ageing infrastructure would require
significant investment to meet health and safety standards if it were to return to its previous
full use, including retail operations. However, several buildings on the site remain usable
and can support the proposed transition to a day service model for adults with assessed
social care needs and volunteer adults with learning disabili ties. At this stage, it is
anticipated that the new service can be delivered with minimal capital investment. Subject
to a decision by the Cabinet Member, a full site assessment will be undertaken once
responsibility transfers to ASC&H to confirm compliance, identify any essential works and
ensure the facilities on the site are fit for purpose for the Adult Social Care provision.
Summary of Consultation Findings
5. Cabinet agreed in June 2025 to undertake consultation with those using the RAGC site
and those with an interest to consider future service options, which included consideration
of the following:
Cabinet Member Report – 15 January 2026 Page 6
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• Relocate those with assessed care needs to the Civic Centre Campus in Uxbridge
to provide enhanced horticultural services and development opportunities.
• Support voluntary service users to move to partner organisations within the local
area offering a more diverse range of activities including horticulture and
biodiversity, and opportunities for paid employment positions should they desire to
do so. The Council would provide training and assistance where required.
• Consider no change in the location of voluntary and support services for those with
assessed social care needs.
6. Residents, service users, their carers and their families were consulted alongside RAGC
volunteers over a 6-week period. Consultation commenced on 27 August 2025 and ended
on 7 October 2025. Appropriate, supported consultation was undertaken with those with
complex needs and care assessments completed as needed . The Social Work Team
worked with families to undertake this. A consultation tool setting out structured questions
was made available in on-line and hard copy formats.
7. The Council received 202 responses to the consultation, which covered the following main
representative groups.
• Club, Society or Organisation: 76
• Parent or Carer: 65
• Volunteer: 33
• Adult Social Care User: 18
• Staff: 6
8. The consultation shows overwhelming opposition to the C ouncil’s proposals in the June
2025 Cabinet report, with 9 5% of respondents disagreeing or strongly disagreeing. Only
4% expressed agreement i.e. agree and strongly agree, and a very small proportion (2%)
were neutral. The consultation strongly confirmed support for maintaining access to
horticultural and gardening services for vulnerable adults, with a clear preference that
these services continue at the RAGC site.
9. Respondents emphasised the importance of this provision for adults with assessed social
care needs as well as those with a learning disability who currently attend but do not meet
the threshold for statutory support. Many comments highlighted the therapeut ic benefits,
sense of community, and continuity offered by the RAGC environment, stressing that these
cannot be replicated in alternative urban settings.
10. Overall, the consultation confirmed strong opposition to relocation of gardening activities,
with 90% of respondents stating they ‘disagree’ or ‘strongly disagree’ with any proposal for
a permanent and immediate move to the Civic Centre. Many comments highlighted that
sudden changes would be unsettling for current service users, and some would struggle
to travel to the Civic Centre without appropriate transport support. Respondents also raised
concerns about the Civic Centre being an unsuitable environment for horticultural and
gardening activities, lacking the therapeutic outdoor space provided at RAGC. See
appendix 1 for the consultation question, findings and full responses (redacted where
required for personal data).
Cabinet Member Report – 15 January 2026 Page 7
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Recommended Future Service Offer
11. In considering the feedback and all options for the future service offer, consideration also
has to be given to the condition of the buildings and facilities on site and whether any
significant capital investment is needed, as well as the day to day running costs of the
RAGC service for it to continue to operate a community service, wider than the adult social
care service offer.
12. Given that the C ouncil needs to ensure best use of taxpayer -funded budgets, the
recommendation is to transition the current service offer at the RAGC site to a day service
provision re- focused on meeting statutory, assessed social care needs, offering a
structured, outcome-based service.
13. By transferring the RAGC into Adult Social Care under the existing Day Provision at
Queens Walk, service users will benefit from access to a broader range of activities and
opportunities to engage with a wider community of peers. This integration will not only
enhance social interaction and independence for adults with learning disabilities but will
also enable service users to participate in horticultural activities that support and add value
to other front -line services across the C ouncil. Importantly, th is transition creates the
potential to open up horticultural therapy and related activities to a wider group of ASC
residents, allowing more individuals to benefit from the therapeutic, social, and wellbeing
outcomes associated with gardening and outdoor engagement.
14. Existing service users who have been dependent on this service for independence and
social interaction will continue to have access to the RAGC for ongoing support and
assessment, while also developing supported pathways to access a diverse range of
opportunities on a case- by-case basis. This approach ensures continuity of valued
activities, maximises community engagement, and leverages the strengths of the Council’s
wider day provision offer.
15. The consultation raised a number of questions about the Council having already
determined the future options for the site, including suggestions that the Council wishes to
sell the RAGC for housing. The Council does not have a proposal for the future use of the
site at this point but will consider any potential future alternative options for the site to best
meet residents needs in due course. All organisations that currently use the facilities will
be reviewed to establish the appropriateness and contractual arrangements in place for
the usage / attendance of the site.
Cabinet Member Report – 15 January 2026 Page 8
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Next Steps and Proposed Timetable
The following outline proposed timetable sets out the key actions required to implement the next
steps, subject to the outcome of the Cabinet Member’s decision, to ensure a smooth transition to
the new service model:
Action Responsible Officer(s) Target Date
Notify Gardeneers, Carers, and
Volunteers of the Cabinet Member
decision
Chris Wheeler, Director, Environment January
2026
Develop detailed transition plan with
Gardeneers, Volunteers, and Carers
including individual reviews and
support arrangements
Jan Major – Assistant Director of Direct
Care/ Marc Upjohn – Team Manager
Behavioural Support/ Adult Social Work
Team/Marcus Harvey – Head of Service
January
2026
Confirm staffing restructure and issue
HR consultation documents
HR, Chris Wheeler, Director, Environment
& Jan Major – Assistant Director of Direct
Care
January
2026
Begin recruitment or redeployment
for revised staffing model
HR & Jan Major – Assistant Director of
Direct Care
February
2026
Prepare RAGC site for new day
service model (including any minor
works or compliance checks)
Gary Penticost – Director of Operational
Assets/ Jan Major – Assistant Director of
Direct Care
February–
March 2026
Integrate RAGC into Queens Walk
Resource Centre management
structure
Jan Major – Assistant Director of Direct
Care March 2026
Launch new day service offer at
RAGC site
Jan Major – Assistant Director of Direct
Care April 2026
Review volunteer engagement and
confirm future arrangements
Jan Major – Assistant Director of Direct
Care April 2026
Report back to Cabinet Member on
implementation progress
Jan Major – Assistant Director of Direct
Care June 2026
Cabinet Member Report – 15 January 2026 Page 9
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Financial Implications
The Rural Activities Garden Centre was subsidised by £137k of Council funds in the 2024/25
financial year, before corporate overheads applied. This figure is currently forecast to reduce to
£114k in the 2025/26 financial year due to reduced operating costs following a Cabinet decision
in June 2025 to cease the retail element of the service.
With retail element Outturn Forecast
2024/25 2025/26
£'000 £'000
Staffing 294 300
Non-staffing 52 6
Income (69) (52)
Public Health funding (140) (140)
General Fund Subsidy
137
114
After removing the retail element of the RAGC ( both cost of materials for resale and the
associated income) the required subsidy was £168k 2024/25 and an estimated £166k for 2025/26.
Without retail element
2024/25
£'000
2025/26
£'000
2026/27
£'000
Saving
£'000
2027/28
£'000
Saving
£'000
Staffing 294 300 145 (154) 150 (150)
Non-staffing 13 6 6 0 6 0
Income 0 0 0 0 0 0
Public Health (140) (140) (140) 0 (140) 0
General Fund Subsidy 168 166 11 (154) 16 (150)
Redundancy / Pension
Strain 0 0 142 142 0 0
The required subsidy of the proposed new non-retail service is estimated at approximately £11k
for 2026/27 ( a saving from 2025- 26 in the region of £154k ) although there is likely to be
approximately £142k of redundancy costs and pension strain costs in the first year. This is on the
assumption that P ublic Health funding continues at the current level of £140k p a, and before
corporate overheads are applied. F or 2027/28 onwards, this net cost to the General Fund
adjusted for pay inflation would be £16k, (a reduction in operational costs of £150k pa before
corporate overheads).
RESIDENT BENEFIT & CONSULTATION
The benefit or impact upon Hillingdon residents, service users and communities
The proposed recommendation will have a positive impact on Hillingdon residents by ensuring
that adults with assessed social care needs and those with learning disabilities continue to access
valued horticultural and gardening activities in a structured, outcomes-focused environment. This
approach promotes independence, social interaction, and wellbeing for vulnerable residents while
Cabinet Member Report – 15 January 2026 Page 10
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maintaining continuity of services they enjoy. By integrating the current activities into the Council’s
wider day provision, the model will deliver a sustainable service that meets statutory duties under
the Care Act 2014 and aligns with the Council’s vision of “Putting Residents First.” The revised
offer also maximi ses community engagement and ensures efficient use of public funds,
safeguarding resources for those most in need while preserving the therapeutic benefits and
sense of belonging that the site provides.
Equalities and Human Rights Implications
An Equality and Human Rights Impact Assessment has been completed to consider the potential
impact of the proposed recommendations on protected groups and can be found in Appendix 2.
Consultation & Engagement
Cabinet agreed in June 2025 to undertake a consultation about proposals for the future use of
the site. Residents, service users, their carers and their families were consulted alongside RAGC
volunteers over a 6-week period. Consultation commenced on 27th August 2025 until 7th October
2025. Appropriate, supported consultation was undertaken with those with complex needs and
care assessments completed as needed. The Social Work Team worked with families to
undertake this. A consultation tool setting out structured questions was made available in on-line
and hard copy formats.
Appendix 1 sets out the consultation findings and charts.
CORPORATE CONSIDERATIONS
Corporate Finance
Corporate Finance have reviewed this report and concur with the Financial Implications set out
above, noting the recommendations to transition the RAGC from its current model of an open-
access, activity based approach to a service designed to deliver planned, person-centred support
aligned with assessed care needs, with the management to move to Adult Social Care and Health
under Direct Care Services and is incorporated into the in- house day provision under the
management and supervision of Queens Walk Resource Centre. The volunteer contributions will
be reviewed to fit the new model.
Furthermore, it is noted the current model is forecast to require a subsidy of £114k in 2025/26;
this forecast includes an element of the retail function that ceased in June 2025. By transitioning
to the proposed day provision model and assuming Public Health funding remains at the current
level, the subsidy is expected to reduce to £11k in 2026/27; however, one-off costs estimated at
£142k relating to the redundancy and pensions strain costs will be incurred in the first year, which
would bring the subsidy to £153k in 2026/27, based on the current operational costs, this is a
reduction of £13k . In 2027/28, the subsidy is forecast to be £16k, representing an estimated
reduction of £98k compared to the current year forecast and a reduction of £150k based on the
current model ’s operational costs without the retail element . If the transition is approved , the
subsidy costs will be met from approved Adult Social Care and Health budgets ; as at Month 6
Direct Care Provision Services were reporting a favourable variance of £386k.
Cabinet Member Report – 15 January 2026 Page 11
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Legal
When considering changes to its services, including the Rural Activities Garden Centre, the
Council must ensure that it continues to comply with the duties under C are Act 2014, including
meeting assessed needs and providing universal services. Additionally, the local authority must
undertake a fair consultation process and have regard to the consultation outcomes, ensuring
that the process is genuine and meaningful. The Council must have regard to the outcome of the
consultation process when making its decision. There are no legal impediments to the
recommendation set out within the report.
Property
The Property Team have noted the continuing use of the property and are supportive of the
recommendations in the report regarding the transfer of the day-to-day management operations
to ASC&H. For avoidance of any doubt the overall responsibility for the ass et will remain with
Property in accordance with the Corporate Landlord approach being implemented.
BACKGROUND PAPERS
Cabinet report and decisions – 26 June 2025
1
Appendix 1 - Rural Activities Garden Centre (RAGC) Full Consultation Responses 2025
Overview
This Appendix includes the consultation results and the full detailed individual responses (redacted for
data protection / personal information) , so the Cabinet Member can view and consider all responses
received. The consultation ran from 27th August 2025 until 7th October 2025 (6 weeks). 202 responses
were received.
Respondents consistently highlighted the centre’s importance as a safe, therapeutic environment for
vulnerable adults, offering routine, social interaction, and mental health benefits. Many expressed that the
Civic Centre as an alternative site to the RAGC is unsuitable and unsafe, lacking the calm outdoor setting
that the RAGC provides. Feedback emphasi sed the centre’s role as a vital community hub and warned
that closure would lead to isolation and higher long- term costs for health and social care. Respondents
urged the C ouncil to explore alternative funding models, such as charitable status, partnerships, and
reopening the café, rather than removing support. Environmental concerns, including the presence of
protected wildlife, were also raised. Overall, the comments strongly advocated for retaining and improving
the RAGC offer rather than closing or relocating it.
1. What interest do you have with the RAGC?
Interest Count Percentage %
Club, Society or
Organisation
76 38%
Parent or Carer 65 33%
Volunteer 33 17%
Adult Social Care User 18 9%
Staff 6 3%
(note – some people responding did not provide this information)
2
2. How do you currently use the services or opportunities at the RAGC?
All Comments
I go there xx times a week to work.
Buying plants etc.
I support its cause.
I don't use the services. I am retired and volunteer as a gardener at RAGC.
I recommended it to people with disabilities or Carers so they can find a supportive activity.
My xxx goes xxx days a week.
I am a member of the public that use the RAGC to purchase plants and other garden equipment.
We can't anymore!
I help at planting the many beautiful plants.
Socialising with others, always ready to help others, to me it's my little haven and a little haven to
many others, an environment that cannot be dismissed, it's unique, it's like a family. As I say a little
haven not to be taken away.
I visit as a customer.
Buying plants & spending time in this lovely place.
As and when 1:1 assistance required.
To work with herbs lotions and potions.
Friends use your services.
N/A.
Buying plants.
At present I don't use the services.
As a xxxx for a family member we visit the centre as they find the centre a calming space, the centre
has been a haven for us to visit as it’s local and the team are very supportive and understanding of our
needs. We were hoping there would be opportunities for us to volunteer at the centre in the coming
xxxx. It’s disappointing to hear the councils plans.
My child comes for xxxx and it’s so helpful.
To upskill and mix with a range of people in a supportive environment.
I buy plants 🪴🪴 & veg, cards & gift items.
Visit the garden centre to learn about plants and buy some plants at the garden centre
I use the centre to stock up on plants in my garden and to get a Christmas tree every year.
Our xxx has been a voluntary worker at the RAGC for about xx years and he thrives there. He is
seriously xxx with xxx. It keeps him active, gives him valuable social interaction and keeps him highly
engaged with all the activity he takes part in there. Otherwise he would spend a lot of time just
sleeping.
Have been a Volunteer, my behaviour can be complex so l do xxx half days.
xxx has been going there since he was xx years old and is now xx. He has enjoyed it although he did
cut down to two days a week.
I was employed as a xxxx between xxx and xxx.
3
As a parent and a local resident in the area, I have been coming to the activity/garden centre for a
number of years. I am extremely saddened that the RAGC is not available to us anymore as we do
not have a space like this close to home rather than having to travel everywhere to enjoy a tranquil
place like the RAGC. I find it a safe, loving and secure place.
We were fortunate to be able to avail of the facilities at RAGC as a family and have enjoyed sharing
this beautiful place with our friends and family. We thoroughly enjoyed this place but particularly as a
great learning opportunity for my xxx who loved to come and meet the staff, meet with friends, learn
about what the gardeners were doing, see my xxx learn to scoot, gain ideas about what to grow in our
garden, see the fish and hens and take part in activities to benefit and improve our health and
wellbeing. It is a shame to see the staff and volunteers and adults been affected by the closure. She
loved being able to have the freedom to run around and enjoy the RAGC to the full. We miss the
space terribly and it should be reopened to the public to enjoy.
I feel that the RAGC is such a wonderful community space that could be acquired as community
resource for all. We would love to see a Cafe back in the grounds and opportunity to get more
involved in the space as really it would be a shame to lose this space. This garden has been here for
40 years and such heart and soul has gone into it.
Used it to purchase plants and as a social place to meet with friends and neighbours.
My family have enjoyed going there for years to buy plants.
It is in the public interest to re-open this site. This should never have been closed. The council needs
to work with its residents not against.
Purchasing plants & garden produce vegetables. Engaging with the staff and volunteers, many being
vulnerable adults. Ensuring all staff & users have a sense of purpose and belonging.
I attend gardening and plant related workshops held on site and run by RAGC staff. They give myself
and other carers who attend great mental health support and wellbeing. These workshops are
provided through Hillingdon Carers, which I am a member.
I go and help them staff with the garden centre as its good for my mental health.
I find it a restful, peaceful place to be.
I support the RAGC by visiting the site, talking to staff and giving the volunteers the opportunity to
provide a valuable service to the public. Being outside, active and with nature is all therapy which is
essential.
Buying Christmas trees and such like up to now but my grandson who is xx years old has XXXX so I
would like to think that the Rural Activities centre is somewhere which would benefit him in the future.
The shop and the coffee shop if it was still open.
It is a lifeline for adults with learning disabilities like many of those I work with.
I support individuals with learning disabilities on a one to one basis.
Buy their produce and engage in conversation with the people who grow and sell their wonderful
plants.
As a volunteer and as a member of the public to purchase plants and see the amazing grounds.
I use experience gained to help me in other horticulture related work. I attend at least once a week.
The xxx we care for goes to the RAGC xxx days a week.
My xxx year old daughter, who has complex mental health needs and lives in a xxxx in XXXXX when
she is not an NHS inpatient, volunteers at RAGC for as many hours in the week as possible when she
is well enough. I have also attended three carer wellbeing workshops at RAGC.
Room hired on a weekly basis to run Vision on pottery club, an independently funded club for people
with disabilities and vision loss.
Visited this great resource on many occasions.
4
My xxx used to go to xxxxxxx, during his time there he was a frequent visitor to RAGC. He also
frequently attended RAGC through HACS (Hillingdon Autistic Care Support). He successfully
completed a work trial to become a volunteer. My xxx absolutely loves the centre, it helps him to
socialise without any judgement, helps him feel he is doing worthwhile work, increases his
communication skills and to be part of a team. RAGC has been invaluable in helping build his
confidence and reducing his anxiety levels. There is nowhere else that my xxx can go that makes him
feel valued and worthy. It will be a huge loss if RAGC is closed due to a profit and loss sheet. RAGC
has been around for over xxx years and it touches individuals not just in Hillingdon but also in the
neighbouring boroughs. RAGC should be allowed to continue as is as they provide such a valuable
service to our most vulnerable family members who don't have a voice to speak up for themselves.
RAGC is a lifeline to our vulnerable people, it stops social isolation. Its benefits are wide ranging. The
staff are dedicated to working with our vulnerable adults and their commitment is evident to see. We
need more places like RAGC. Save RAGC.
My xxx has been volunteering at the RAGC for around xxx years.
We go to buy plants a few times a year. It is a fantastic environment for adults with special needs and
lovely for us to help in a small way.
Socialising, a safe place to meet others with special needs.
Used regularly when open.
Used to provide work skills and social skills. To develop confidence and self-worth.
Our xxx attends the RAGC xxx days a week.
Buying plants, Xmas tree.
Sold plants.
Can't use it since it was shut down by Hillingdon Council.
Rather wrongly I add.
Visit regularly and want it to remain open for the community and people who use it. A vital resource
and base.
We drop and collect xxxx at the RAGC up to xxx times a week. xxx has xxx and since Hillingdon have
taken away all other forms of support for xxxx this is all xxx has left. It gives him a job to do, helps
keep his mind going and he has made many friends there. If he loses the RAGC we fear xxx will
regress, it will disrupt his routine which can prove very troublesome as he has trouble understanding
and coping with change.
We use the RAGC xxx times per week to provide a safe and nurture environment for our xxx who has
learning difficulties. He has been attending for over xxx years. we have seen his confidence grow, he
has gained some independence and feels valued.
We would visit the garden centre frequently and enjoy the tranquil safe environment.
I love to visit for relaxation and enjoy this beautiful and creative space.
I shop for my own garden and seek advice from the wonderful team
And I shop for the garden where I work which is a charity supporting those in recovery. The RAGC
have helped us while we created a pond and a mega 6ft bug hotel. These 2 projects have brought so
much joy and we are incredibly grateful for the support from the RAGC.
I have used the centre as a member of the public for many years.
This was to buy plants and produce and visit the cafe alone and with friends and relatives.
This has always been a lifesaver for many people who are lonely or need some social interaction.
The word ‘lifesaver’ is not an exaggeration.
I do any jobs the staff ask me to do.
I shop there and know the importance of the RAGC to a friend’s family whose xxx works there.
I support the RAGC by purchasing from them, I also enjoyed the space near the former cafe and pond
to chill, relax and interact with the staff and volunteers.
5
Visit the centre to purchase plants and to support its good cause supporting vulnerable adults and
young people.
I used the RAGC to escape the rat run of daily life, I used to sit in the area with seating that allowed
me to watch the birds in the growth, this was my way of relaxing as I get stressed, since it’s closure I
have had to use Little Britain Lake, this is nowhere near as relaxing as RAGC being as it is unkept and
now covered with litter and empty cans, it also does not feel safe as it is prone to drinkers and other
undesirable persons so I’m looking for somewhere else now, however having limited mobility does not
make this easy.
Excellent.
I have 2 xxxx xxxxxx daughters who spend at least twice a week visiting and buying plants and
vegetable plants from here.
This is a vital part of the local community. They have become more isolated since not being able to
visit. They love the animals there too and often enjoy the social side of talking to similar minded
people there.
We used to come to visit this lovely place since I had my xx in xxxx. Grab a cup of coffee at the cafe
when it was still open, feed the fish and chickens, explore the little woods, talk to the lovely staff at the
garden, who were always super friendly and helpful, always happy to share their experiences and tips
on gardening.
Shop there to support service users. Visit to show support.
Used to visit & buy plants etc
To buy plants and was also a regular user of the Tea Room socially.
Know an individual and his family who benefit from the RAGC facilities.
To relax and purchases when retail was open.
This is a great local asset for the community. It's a lovely place to go to and chat with the volunteers
and locals who use it. It's really important for some people more than others. Please stop taking away
services from our community. We need more services and activities for our young and adult residents.
The rapid rise in anti social behaviour in the borough is evident. The council needs to do more and be
more proactive in giving the community what it needs.
As a respite from pressures but been made harder after closure of cafe by the council which was
being run privately.
I did buy all my plants from there several times a year but cannot anymore.
I would have visited as a customer. I also used the cafe run by HACS before it closed. I volunteer with
Mencap and I know several people who use Mencap facilities, also work at RAGC.
I used to buy things from the garden centre. And enjoy the pond, garden etc. I’m a local resident.
Support garden sales.
I used the cafe when it was open often at lunchtime with work colleagues. I also regularly used the
garden centre to purchase plants and always used it for a Christmas tree.
My xxx has been attending weekly for xxx years.
I go there once a week to do gardening.
We visited many times to buy plants and walk around the grounds.
My xxxx with xxx likes going with carers, will buy from shop and has enjoyed the cafe in the past.
Whilst it was open to the general public I used to visit and buy plants and then use the delightful little
cafe.
We miss these facilities.
Member of the public buying plants and compost.
I am not actually a volunteer, but I am a supporter.
Yes.
Resident who buys plants.
6
We used to bring groups of otherwise housebound elderly neighbours to the tearoom by minibus.
Since the tearoom closed, we have continued to use the garden centre and found it an excellent
experience, both horticultural and socially., but we miss the tearoom.
Used to support service users to work at the centre and then a customer.
The users have a real sense of community at the RAGC. Moving them to work around the Civic
Centre will destroy that sense of community and satisfaction of doing something worthwhile together
with others.
My xx who has XXXX is turning xx on the xx of xxxx and we was planning for him to volunteer here. I
really do hope this place is saved as slowly by surely we are losing everything for our young adult with
additional needs.
I don’t personally use it, but members of my community, Ruislip, do.
I have used the centre on many occasions as a customer.
We buy all our garden plants there. We used to use the lovely cafe before it had to shut too.
I have visited the centre to support its work.
Visit the garden.
Visiting.
I use the garden centre for advice, products and to communicate with the staff.
Visit and enjoy the centre. Buy plants for my garden.
I can't it's shut to the public, otherwise I would visit to buy gardening items or visit the cafe which is
sadly missed.
I have bought beautiful plants from there in the distant past. I rarely travel to the RAGC by bike but
would do so if there was an appropriate route from the north of the borough. I would like to support its
continuance as it was one of the few low-key but comfortably welcoming places to visit in the borough.
I use them as they are easily accessible for me and are always happy to give information about their
plants. The parking is better as I hold a blue badge.
I bought garden plants and wood chips for the garden, supporting the volunteers in their work.
Buy my Christmas tree from there. Lovely place & opportunities for the local community.
When it was open I bought plants & eggs. Visited the beautiful pond & chickens. Engaged with staff.
I'm a friend of the RAGC.
We go to the shop and enjoy seeing the wonderful work they do there. Many of the gardeneers have
come a long way over the years we have attended.
Friend.
I have friends who use and rely on RAGC.
My xx is a volunteer.
Regularly purchased gardening items for local allotment group.
For respite from stress and to tend my garden.
You have closed it to the public so I cannot use it. Shame on the council for taking this resource
away.
Visiting, talking, purchasing, caring.
Visit and participate.
As a Hillingdon resident I believe the opportunities the centre provides are very important and
environmentally beneficial too.
As xxxx under the Shared Lives family placement scheme, we look after a xxxx. Included in this is his
attendance and work at the RAGC.
Buy my plants here.
I have often purchased flowers created by the group and participated in creative groups organised by
them.
7
To support the centre by buying my gardening needs from them.
Am a friend of the rural activity centre group & use it not only to buy my plants but also to wonder,
meditate & help my wellbeing from a busy work live
Customer who utilised the centre to take elderly neighbours and family members. Ideal atmosphere for
those that required outside time. The familiar atmosphere had been very much enjoyed and as a
green flag location of Hillingdon it was treasured and appreciated.
I don't personally.
Yes I shop here.
Purchase Christmas trees.
A gardening course for mental wellbeing. Also as a garden centre and meeting place when the cafe
was open.
My xxx used to volunteer in tearoom and we use the garden centre.
I support the aims of the RAGC.
I have visited RAGC on multiple occasions and can see the care Users and volunteers are so happy in
the calm environment.
They supply some of the plants we plant.
Supporting people with life sustaining skills, in a place where they feel saf
View Decision / Minutes Text
Executive Decision Notice – 26 January 2026
This notice is a public document also available to view on the Council's website www.hillingdon.gov.uk
OFFICIAL EXECUTIVE DECISION NOTICE
PUBLISHED BY DEMOCRATIC SERVICES
Notice is hereby given that the following decision(s) have been made today by
Cabinet Members at the London Borough of Hillingdon:
Title of decision RURAL ACTIVITIES GARDEN CENTRE
Reference No. 1605
Date of decision Monday 26 January 2026
Call-in expiry date Monday 2 February 2026
Relevant Select
Committee
Health & Social Care Select Committee.
Relevant Wards Colham & Cowley, All
Decision made
Cabinet Members making
the decision
Councillor Wayne Bridges, Cabinet Member for Community
and Environment
Councillor Jane Palmer, Cabinet Member for Health &
Social Care
Decision Agreed
That the Cabinet Member for Community &
Environment, in consultation with the Cabinet Member
for Health & Social Care:
1. Had regard to the findings of the public
consultation, which found overall that the
horticultural and gardening offer is valued and
enjoyed by the adults with learning disabilities
attending the RAGC site;
2. Agreed that the Rural Activities Garden Centre
(RAGC) will transition from its current model —
which offers horticultural activities, community
engagement, and vocational opportunities - to a
structured day service provision that represents
a shift from an open- access, activity -based
approach to a service designe d to deliver
planned, person- centred support aligned with
assessed care needs. The new model will focus
on providing meaningful daytime opportunities
within a framework that meets statutory
requirements and will also support volunteer
adults attending the site with a Learning
Disability as part of a wider programme to
promote individual outcomes.
Executive Decision Notice – 26 January 2026
This notice is a public document also available to view on the Council's website www.hillingdon.gov.uk
3. Agreed that the management of the RAGC
transfers to the Adult Social Care & Health
Directorate under Direct Care S ervices and is
incorporated into the in-house day provision and
under the management and supervision of
Queens Walk Resource Centre.
4. Noted and recognised the valued and significant
voluntary contributions which have been made
over a number of years and that the C ouncil
intends to review how volunteers can support in
line with the new delivery model on offer at the
site.
5. Noted from the consultation exercise , the public
interest in the future use of the RAGC site as one
with community benefit and that any decision on
such use should have regard to this feedback.
Reason for decision The Rural Activities Garden Centre (RAGC) has long been
established as a valued location for many adults with
additional needs, providing meaningful horticultural
activities, social connection, and a sense of belonging. The
consultation highlighted just how important this environment
is to those who use it, and these views have played an
important part in shaping the proposed way forward.
However, several challenges now make the current model
difficult to sustain. Attendance by adults with assessed
social care needs has reduced over time, while the cost of
running the service—
alongside the upkeep of an ageing
site—has continued to rise sign ificantly. The site now
supports a relatively small number of people at a high cost,
and major capital investment would be required to restore
buildings to full use. In addition, some volunteers have been
identified as having eligible care needs, meaning t he
Council is legally required to provide support in a structured
and consistent way.
The consultation made clear that many people feel deeply
connected to the RAGC and are concerned about change.
These concerns are fully understood. The intention is not to
remove horticultural activities —
but to ensure they can
continue safely and sustainably for those who rely on them.
To achieve this, the gardening offer will become part of the
Adult Social Care Day Service model, enabling continued
access to valued activities while also offering service users
Executive Decision Notice – 26 January 2026
This notice is a public document also available to view on the Council's website www.hillingdon.gov.uk
a wider range of opportunities that promote independence,
wellbeing and social interaction.
This approach helps to:
• Protect therapeutic gardening activities for adults
with learning disabilities.
• Provide greater stability and consistency for those
with assessed care needs.
• Ensure responsible use of public funds, focused on
those who need support the most.
• Offer broader activity choices across the Council’s
established day service network.
• Maintain continuity for current users, including
ongoing access to the RAGC during the transition.
Volunteers remain highly valued. Their future roles will be
reviewed sensitively to ensure contributions continue to be
meaningful and safe within the new structure.
Ultimately, the change aims to preserve what residents
value most about the RAGC —its sense of community, its
therapeutic benefits, and its supportive environment—while
ensuring services remain robust, fair and financially
sustainable for the future.
Alternative options
considered and rejected
In considering alternative options for the current horticultural
and gardening offer from the RAGC site, a ‘no change’
option was explored. While this was the preferred option for
many respondents to the consultation and is
understandable given the strong attachment to the existing
service, it was discounted for several reasons. Maintaining
the current model would not best serve the needs of adults
with learning disabilities who benefit from structured,
outcomes-focused support aligned to assessed care needs.
The existing service is financially unsustainable, with high
operational costs and low attendance, and does not provide
the breadth of opportunities needed to promote
independence and social interaction. In contrast, the
recommended day service model will deliver tailored
activities designed to meet statutory obligations under the
Care Act 2014, ensure better use of public resources, and
offer access to a wider range of diverse opportunities.
Recognising that any change can be unsettling, a carefully
design
ed transition plan will be implemented around the
needs of individual service users, including those adults with
learning disabilities who currently attend the RAGC site but
do not meet an assessed need.
Classification Part I – Public
Executive Decision Notice – 26 January 2026
This notice is a public document also available to view on the Council's website www.hillingdon.gov.uk
Link to associated report Here
Relevant Officer contact
& Directorate
Dan Kennedy, Corporate Director, Residents Services
Sandra Taylor, Corporate Director, Adult Social Care &
Health
Any interest declared by
the Cabinet Member(s) /
dispensation granted
N/A
Implementation of decision & scrutiny call-in
[Internal Use only]
When can this
decision be
implemented by
officers?
Officers can implement Cabinet Member decision in this notice only
from the expiry of the scrutiny call-in period which is:
5pm on Monday 2 February 2026
However, this is subject to the decision not being called in by
Councillors on the relevant Select Committee. Upon receipt of a
valid call-in request, Democratic Services will immediately advise
the relevant officer(s) and the decision must then be put on hold.
Councillor scrutiny
call-in of this
decision
Councillors on the relevant Select Committee shown in this notice
may request to call-in this decision. The request must be before the
expiry of the scrutiny call-in period above.
Councillors should use the Scrutiny Call-in App (link below) on their
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from Democratic Services if required:
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Further information These decisions, where applicable, have been taken under The
Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access
to Information) (England) Regulations 2012.
This is the formal notice by the Council of the above executive
decision, including links to the reports where applicable.
If you would like more information on this decision, please contact
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democratic@hillingdon.gov.uk.
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Council’s website.
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