Single complaint to council threatens to destroy beloved community garden

A retiree in Port Melbourne is heartbroken after being locked out of the community garden he created all because of one complaint made to council.

Morry Garroti started the community garden across the road from his house during the city's 263 day lockdown and claims it brings people together as they care for the green space.

But while Port Phillip Council initially approved the green space, they have since told Mr Garroti and fellow residents that the garden must change, informing them that parts of the garden will need to be ripped up to make room for two trees which will be "better for the environment", according to 7News.

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The change of heart is believed to have stemmed from a single complaint from one resident, with locals speculating the individual had taken it upon themselves to initiate the unwelcome change.

Council to rip up fruit trees and invasive weeds

Mr Garroti told 7News that he was oblivious of the council's intentions to change the space before a notice appeared near the garden.

"The sign went up, and then of course people started to get angry including myself. If we get rid of it a lot of people are going to suffer," he said.

The sign outlined that the local council was "committed to enhancing our urban environment" when speaking to the community, before sharing they will now be responsible for overseeing the garden bed. They did, however, acknowledge the community's gardening efforts.

"We appreciate residents' interest in planting and maintaining this garden bed since COVID-19 lockdowns," it read.

Council told 7News several fruit trees and "invasive weed species" needed to go.

When asked how he felt about the change to his garden, Mr Garroti got visibly emotional and said it was "upsetting" but questioned what he could do in light of the decision.

A local resident likened ripping out the garden to "ripping out Mr Garroti's heart", because of the love he had poured into caring for the space.

"He's put his heart and soul into this," resident Guy Boston said.

Local community have a lot to lose

The benefits of gardening are well documented on the Victoria State Government website, which lists many reasons why the community should consider engaging in the activity.

It states that gardening promotes physical health as it is a form of exercise, and due to it being less strenuous compared to other forms it can be enjoyed by people of every age.

There are also therapeutic benefits to be gained by those who participate, as it promotes mindfulness and relaxation.

Despite the disappointing new development, Mr Garroti stays true to his initial intentions of when he first started the garden.

"I don't want to create problems. I just want to create joy," he said.

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