24 May 2026
Three weeks after an arson attack on a children’s bug hotel at a community garden in Sopwell and volunteers have created a bigger, stronger refuge for local wildlife.
Grow Community Sopwell, founded to bring residents together through gardening, sustainability and shared outdoor space, has been a cornerstone of the neighbourhood for six years.
The bug hotel offered a hands‑on way for children to support local biodiversity, providing environmental learning and a feature of the wildlife section, but was torched by vandals on April 23.
In the wake of this attach, more than 100 residents stepped forward with offers of help, materials and heartfelt support for the committee.
Last Saturday, the organisation held its annual open day, championing sustainable gardening and showcasing everything the community garden has to offer. Seed swaps, planting sessions and nature‑themed colouring all featured – alongside the much‑anticipated rebuild of the beloved insect habitat.
Grow Community Sopwell received support Ayletts, the Highfield Park Trust and many others to ensure the bug hotel had the chance to thrive again as summer approaches.
Trustee Lee Wood was visibly overwhelmed by the response to recent events.
“I can’t thank everyone enough for the kindness. Everyone who reached out – you are the absolute epitome of what this city is all about. We probably had enough offers of material to build 10 bug-houses.
“Watch this space. I couldn’t collect everything but we have plans in the pipeline.
“A huge heartfelt thank you to all for your immense generosity and help in making our vision come to life. You are wonderful people.
“From a personal perspective, it was hugely emotional to see the reaction of my daughter as the tears from weeks earlier turned to smiles as she, along with ten local children, started to rebuild what was cruelly taken away.”
