On Monday 21st July 2025, Station Commander, Group Captain Louise Henton officially opened the newly completed Conservation Garden at the Millennium Amenities Centre (MAC)
This was a collaborative project led by the RAF Brize Norton Conservation Club to revitalise a once-disused outdoor area for the benefit of the Airplay Youth Club.
Originally started in April, the garden has been transformed into a vibrant, nature-focused space that offers children the chance to interact with and influence the world around them.
The aim of the garden is to create a calm space where the children can experience and influence the nature around them and areas to encourage flora and fauna, whilst also leaving spaces for the children to plant their own seeds and bulbs.
The garden features a range of handmade elements, constructed by volunteers using reclaimed and repurposed materials. Raised beds, a mud kitchen, bug hotel, bird boxes, and chalkboards all reflect the creativity and care that went into the space.
The project was only made possible thanks to the generous contributions of personnel and partner organisations across RAF Brize Norton. JADTEU, THALES, Serco, Vinci, and the Grounds Maintenance team supported the effort with materials, tools, and expertise, from bespoke benches and feeders to wood chippings and construction support.
Station Environment Protection Officer said:
"We are incredibly grateful for the support shown by station personnel and out partners, this project simply would not have been possible without the combined effort of serving personnel, civilians, contractors and local contributors. It truly was a whole-force achievement."
Station Environment Protection Officer
Now complete, the MAC Conservation Garden stands as a permanent resource for the local area’s youth and a visible testament to what Station-wide collaboration can achieve in support of sustainability and community spirit.
