For decades, the Rural Activities Garden Centre (RAGC) has been more than just a nursery; it has been a vital hub for horticultural therapy, providing adults with learning disabilities – affectionately known as the “gardeneers” – with meaningful work, social connection, and a sense of purpose.
While the site’s gates were closed to the public in July 2025, the heart of the RAGC has continued to beat behind the scenes. However, this cherished community asset is facing its most significant challenge yet.
The Current Situation
Following a consultation process in late 2025 that many residents felt lacked transparency, the Council published Report 1605 in January. This report recommends:
- The permanent closure of the site.
- The relocation of activities to other facilities across the borough.
- Immediate implementation of these plans, despite many details remaining vague and critical recommendations not being part of the initial public consultation.
Why This Matters to Ruislip Residents
While the RAGC is located in Colham & Cowley, its impact is felt across all of Hillingdon. Many of us in Ruislip have visited over the years to buy plants or enjoy the tranquil environment. Some of our residents have family members who attend the RAGC as part of their support and care. The loss of such a specialized, safe, and established site affects the diversity of services available to vulnerable residents borough-wide.
THIS MONTH Residents’ Meeting
The Council has announced a meeting for residents to discuss these changes. While the Council indicates that a decision has already been reached, this is a critical opportunity for the community to show the breadth of support for the RAGC – especially with local elections approaching in just two months.
Meeting Details:
- Date: Friday, 27th February
- Time: 10:30 AM
- Location: Rural Activities Garden Centre (RAGC), UB8 3JZ
Whether you are a long-time visitor or simply value the essential social services the RAGC provides, your presence can help demonstrate to the Council that our community cares about preserving these unique assets.
Invitation to the meeting from the Council
19th February 2026
Dear Families, Carers and Residents of RAGC
We are writing to update you following the Cabinet Member decision made on 2nd February 2026 on some important changes to the Rural Activities Garden Centre (RAGC) and to explain the next steps in this process.
Over the past few months, the council carried out a public consultation to understand what people value most about the RAGC and what the future service should look like.
Many of you took part, and we would like to thank everyone who shared their views.
We want to assure you that these views have been carefully considered and have directly informed the decisions made by Cabinet Members
What is changing?
The council has agreed that the RAGC will move from its previous open-access, activity-based model to a structured day service provision. This means:
- Support at the RAGC will be delivered through a structured activity programme that is tailored to each person’s abilities, needs and aspirations, ensuring a fully person‑centred approach
- Gardening activities will continue to form part of the structured programme
- Adults with learning disabilities who volunteer at the site will continue to be supported through the new programme.
Who will manage the service?
The RAGC will now be managed by the Adult Social Care and Health Directorate, under Direct Care Services.
It will become part of the in‑house day service offer and will be overseen by the Queens Walk Resource Centre.
This change will provide:
- more personalised support for each person
- access to a wider range of meaningful daytime opportunities.
Volunteers
We want to recognise the significant and valued contribution volunteers have made at the RAGC over many years. As part of the transition, the council will explore how volunteers can continue to be involved in a way that fits the new service model and supports positive outcomes for the people who attend.
What happens next?
- We will work closely with each person currently attending the RAGC, as well as their families and carers, to plan a smooth transition
- Reviews will be arranged where necessary to ensure support plans reflect the new model
- Everyone currently attending will continue to receive support throughout the transition
- We will keep you updated at each stage and provide opportunities for you to ask questions and share feedback.
To support this, we will be holding a meeting for residents so that we can talk with you directly, provide information and answer any questions you may have, on site at the RAGC between 10:30 and midday on Friday 27 February
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