Lee Foster is a Traffic Management Operative based out of Traffix’s Head Office in Bickenhill, Solihull. Lee had an idea, the result of which has now transformed what was an unsightly area of the Bickenhill site, into a tranquil Peace Garden enjoyed by all staff. We posed a few questions to Traffix’s new, gardener in residence…
Where did the idea come from?
“Whilst waiting for the kettle to boil I was looking out of the kitchen window; the outlook it has to be said was pretty depressing. I thought to myself that with a little effort it could be changed into something much nicer to look at, with the added benefit of becoming a space to enjoy and break away from the office environment.”
Who did you approach?
“Initially, I shared my idea for a garden area with our Operations Director Derek Vinning, who was very supportive. Once I started to talk to the wider management team they all got behind it.”
Did you have any help creating the garden?
“I didn’t really need any, it was just a case of finding a bit of extra time following my shifts during the week and at weekends.”
How often do you work on upkeeping it?
“It’s relatively low maintenance, I just spend a few minutes after work watering and deadheading, nothing out of the ordinary. Although, I’ve recently re-potted some of the plants from the summer over to more hardy plants for the colder months.”
You are obviously you a gardener at home?
“Yes, I absolutely love my garden at home. I spent a lot of time on it, it’s my favourite room.”
What’s been the reaction from your colleagues?
“The garden has been really well received by everyone and I’m delighted to say it gets plenty of use. That makes it all worthwhile. ”
Kerry Draper is Health, Safety and Facilities Director at Traffix;
“What Lee has done is tremendous. You would be amazed at the wildlife now visible from the kitchen window, it’s quite something. Many of us use the area to relax, we even have impromptu meetings around the garden furniture and enjoyed a barbeque or two over the summer. What a difference!”
