Residents rally to rebuild Wallasey community space destroyed in fire

The founders of Earth Moves, a community garden project that uses horticulture and creative workshops to encourage community cohesion and tackle social issues, said they have been left “heartbroken” after their shed and gazebo were burnt to the ground at around 4am on Thursday, May 2.

Due to the attack, Earth Moves has had to cancel its upcoming free events, including a mental wellbeing gardening event and a disability inclusive dance session.

Crops and educational and art materials were also destroyed in the attack (Image: Earth Moves)

Paula Staunton, Co-Founder at Earth Moves, said: “We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved community shed at the Earth Moves site has been destroyed by arson.

“This was a space built with love, for the community, by the community to allow a space for connecting to nature and each other. 

“It's so sad that our work has been made harder by this event.

Paula Staunton looks on at the destroyed community space (Image: Earth Moves)

“Many vulnerable people are connected to our project, where we offer regular free events and eco therapies.

“We won't let this destroy our spirit, a community cannot be destroyed by burning down a building.”

Photos show the level of devastation for the project, where the shed, covered gazebo area, and nearby crops were reduced to ashes. The shed was built using grant funding and donations and represented years of hard work and volunteer hours. 

Volunteers survery the destruction including the pizza oven which was popular at community cooking events (Image: Earth Moves)

Following the devastation, a fundraising page has been set up by Earth Moves to replace the shed and the contents inside that included tables, chairs, art, cooking and education materials, first aid kits and a solar panel.

Paula added: “The destruction of our community shed leaves us grappling with questions of how someone could commit such an act. Burning a community space and all the innocent plants too.

The shed before it was burnt, painted pink due to a vote by volunteers (Image: Earth Moves)

“But even in the face of this tragedy, we refuse to lose hope.

“The response we have had so far in support of our project means we know we are doing good work, and this will continue.”

Merseyside Police are appealing for information following the suspected arson.

Community Policing Inspector Nicola Hughes said: "This incident has caused significant distress, inconvenience and impact to the activities of this really important community project. 
 
"At this stage, the cause of the fire is unconfirmed but if you have any information or saw anything suspicious in the area please let us know and we will take action."
 
Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 with reference 24000403673.

You can donate to the GoFundMe here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/rebuild-earth-moves-community-shed