Run by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, staff at the Kings Park Plant Nursery announced on social media that the nursery would not be reopening as usual in the spring.
According to the BCP, the difficult decision was made because “Soaring inflation has driven up costs, and many councils are facing an increase in demand for core services, such as social care, education, and highways”. The BCP Council has stated that nursery was running at a loss of £225,000 and that the closure of the nursery will save £85,000 in the 2024/25 financial year.
The nursery, which employed five permanent staff and has been growing plants for Bournemouth’s local parks and gardens since 1924.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce that the difficult decision has been made to close our plant nursery. We will not open in spring 2024. We are hugely grateful to all of you, our loyal customers, for your valued support through the years.
We will miss serving you but may your outdoor space – however big or small – continue to bring you joy as you love and nurture it”, write nursery staff.
The nursery will reopen for four days in February (14-17th) to sell remaining stock.