AN environmental project to benefit the whole community will be launched at an open day at Hodge House Allotments, Nelson, tomorrow, from 11am to 3.30pm

Pendle Community Network will lead a project funded by Pendle Partnership, which will provide an environmentally friendly centre comprising a meeting/training room, kitchen, toilets and a large tool store with wheelchair access.

The new building, on the site of the former hut, will benefit people using the allotments, local residents, disability groups, school and community groups in the Bradley area.

Hodge House Community Building has been designed to be low impact and incorporate energy saving features.

The site works will be managed by Greenbuilt, the team behind other self-build projects in the area such as the field study centre at Lomeshaye Marsh and Green Space's building in Burnley.

The inspiration and driving force behind the scheme is Derek Gascoigne, project leader of Pendle Environmental Action Group and chairman of the Hodge House Allotment Society.

Mr Gascoigne said: "This project is about removing some of the barriers that get in the way of people caring for their environment and enjoying the outdoors."

The open day will celebrate the launch of the new "Garden-Able" project, for people with disabilities. This is supported by Lancashire County Council Social Services, Wheels and Feet and the Ecroyd Centre. Pendle Environmental Action Group carried out the construction work on this project.