A brand-new Green Gym and food growing space has opened for locals in Bournville, thanks to Mondelēz International’s Health for Life programme.

Funded by Mondelēz International and delivered by The Conservation Volunteers (TCV), the community Green Gym is located at Rowheath Pavilion. It offers locals the opportunity to take part in free outdoor sessions where they can be active and get involved in growing fruit and vegetables.

The Health for Life programme encourages people of all ages and abilities to take part and is designed to inspire a healthier lifestyle, motivating participants to increase physical exercise, learn more about healthy eating and how to grow their own fresh produce whether in a community space or at home. The Green Gym offers social interaction and hands-on horticultural activity in the natural environment, aiming to benefit the health and wellbeing of those taking part.

As with any gym, each session starts with a warm-up in preparation for a range of activities. The multi-functional space at Rowheath also includes a large growing area where locals can plant and harvest their own fruit and vegetables, including carrots, onions, tomatoes and potatoes.

The on-site Rowheath Pavilion café will also be using the freshly grown produce in a variety of dishes for diners to enjoy. The opening of the Green Gym also coincides with the 97-year anniversary of Rowheath Pavilion, which was built by the Cadbury family in 1924 to give the local community access to green space.

Catherine White, executive manager at Rowheath Pavilion, said: “Supporting the health and wellbeing of our local community is at the forefront of everything we do at Rowheath Pavilion. We’re delighted to be continuing George Cadbury’s legacy of wellbeing through the opening of this community Green Gym at our venue.”

Community affairs manager at Mondelēz International, Kelly Farrell, said: “Our Health for Life programme is all about promoting sustainable changes which lead to a healthier lifestyle, and benefits a range of communities across Birmingham. We’re excited that Rowheath Pavilion’s Green Gym is now open. It’s fantastic to see the local Bournville community enjoying the green space whilst having the opportunity to grow food as well.

TCV offers a range of activities through Mondelēz International’s Health for Life programme to individuals and community groups across South Birmingham – including Bournville, Edgbaston, Weoley Castle, Northfield, Kings Norton and Longbridge.