Planting for the future... Volunteers from Atlantes Landscapes help shape new YMCA housing project in Paignton

A new supported housing project in Paignton is taking shape, thanks to the combined efforts of a local charity, businesses from across Devon and volunteers determined to make a difference in the lives of young people.

Cove House, located on Cliff Road with views across the bay, will soon provide supported accommodation for young people in Torbay who are at risk of homelessness. Designed to offer both stability and opportunity, the project is part of YMCA South Devon's wider mission to provide safe housing and guidance for vulnerable young adults as they work towards independence.

Recently, a team from Exeter-based landscaping company Atlantes Landscapes travelled to Paignton to volunteer their time and skills to help enhance the outdoor space around the property. Their task was to plant a new hedge around the site, helping create a greener, more welcoming environment for the future residents.

The team which included, Denise, Stewart, Aaron, Michael and Adam, planted 45 Griselinea hedge plants around the property, creating both structure and privacy for the garden area. The plants were supplied by Quercus Nursery, which supported the project by arranging free delivery. 

The work formed part of Atlantes Landscapes’ commitment to community engagement, a value that sits at the heart of the company’s culture. “Our heart is to support our community,” said the company's Strategy Director, Denise Gomes Bentley. “By bringing the team here we reinforce that value, because we are supporting people who are more vulnerable. Helping YMCA is a way for us to set a positive example for our team, our clients and our local community.”

The volunteer day also gave the team an opportunity to learn more about the work of YMCA Exeter and the scale of the challenge facing young people across the region. Lydia Brown, Torbay Housing Manager and Warden for YMCA Exeter, explained the importance of the project. “YMCA’s Paignton project is designed to meet a very real need in Torbay, where in 2023 we saw a 180% increase in 18–25-year-olds at high risk of homelessness,” she said.

“By developing supported accommodation in Paignton, we’re creating a pathway that gives young people safety, structure and the chance to take positive steps forward. I have worked for YMCA for nine years, and seeing the change in young people is huge. I am excited for what this project and my team will bring to the young people of Torbay, and our goal remains simple: to help them build a future where independence is possible and opportunity is within reach.”

During the visit, the Atlantes Landscapes team were given a tour of Cove House by YMCA staff, including Simon Poytner, who showed them around the property and explained how the building will support residents once it opens. The house has been designed to provide both accommodation and a supportive environment where young people can rebuild confidence, develop life skills and prepare for independent living. For many residents, it will represent a fresh start.

For the volunteers, seeing the location and hearing the stories behind the project brought the purpose of the day’s work into focus. Stewart, who led the Atlantes Landscapes team on site, said the experience was rewarding for everyone involved. “We were really pleased to contribute,” he said. “We work with plants every day and it’s special when you know the work you’re doing will directly improve a place that’s going to mean a lot to someone’s life.”

The warm welcome from the YMCA team also made the day memorable.  The volunteers were greeted with hot drinks, snacks and plenty of encouragement from staff as they worked, creating a friendly atmosphere that reflected the shared purpose of the project. Partnerships like this are increasingly important for charities such as YMCA South Devon, which relies on collaboration with businesses and local organisations to support its work.

For Atlantes Landscapes, the volunteer day was part of a wider commitment to using their skills to support the communities in which they operate. By the end of the day, the new hedge had been planted, marking a small but meaningful step in preparing Cove House for its future residents. And when those residents arrive, they will not only find a home with one of the best views in Paignton, but also a place designed to help them build a better future.

Atlantes Landscapes is an award-winning company led by Paul Bentley. It was named Company of the Year at the Association of Professional Landscapers Awards 2025 and was also part of a Gold Medal-winning team at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show alongside Devon designers Chris Hull and Sid Hill.  See Exeter Daily article, Devon trio unites to create an innovative health garden at Chelsea Flower Show.