Fire Station Square, Salford, a strong spirit of teamwork and community engagement was on display over a two-day period as volunteers from Cemex Salford Asphalt team and Balfe Building & Construction came together to support a local allotment project. The initiative focused on the creation of robust, long-lasting concrete planters designed to enhance the growing space and provide local residents with improved facilities.
The project saw a dedicated group of professionals including David Tyghe, David Davies, Darren O’Neil, Rhiannon Davies Bull, Eddie Wilkinson, Brett Halsey, and Anthony Baker, combine their practical skills and industry expertise to deliver tangible improvements to the site.
Work began early on day one, with the team preparing materials and constructing frames for the concrete planters. Drawing on their experience in construction and materials handling, the group ensured that each step was carried out with precision and safety in mind.
Cemex colleagues played a key role in supplying and managing the concrete posts, ensuring consistency and durability. Meanwhile, the Balfe Building & Construction team brought their expertise in fabrication and installation, enabling the project to move forward efficiently. By the end of the first day the initial pours had been completed, and the planters were left to cure properly overnight, an essential step to guarantee structural integrity.
Day two focused on finalising the planters and positioning them across the allotment site. Once the concrete had set the team carefully inserted the panels, revealing a series of sturdy, well-formed planters ready for use.
Working collaboratively, the group transported and installed the units throughout the allotment, ensuring optimal placement for accessibility and sunlight exposure. The finished result was a striking and practical addition to the space, designed to support local growing efforts for years to come.
A Positive Impact on the Community
This project highlights the positive impact that skilled volunteers and local partnerships can have on community spaces. The new planters at Fire Station Squire allotment will provide residents with improved opportunities for gardening, encouraging sustainability, wellbeing, and community interaction.
Participants described the experience as both rewarding and enjoyable, with a strong sense of achievement at seeing the completed installation.
The collaboration between Cemex and Balfe Building & Construction demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations work together toward a common goal. The combined efforts of the Cemex team ensured the success of the project within a tight two-day timeframe. As the allotment begins to benefit from these new additions, the project stands as a testament to the value of teamwork, expertise, and community-focused initiatives.