Work begins on new Children's Sensory Garden at Colchester Hospital

Construction is now underway on a brand-new Children’s Sensory Garden at Colchester Hospital, marking an important milestone for young patients, families and staff.

This project has been made possible thanks to the remarkable legacy of Noah Jones, known to many as ‘Background Bob’. Noah was a talented teenage artist from Dedham, Essex, who lived with hydrocephalus, epilepsy and cerebral palsy. Through his collaborative ‘Background Bob’ art project and incredible community fundraising efforts, more than £250,000 has been raised to support children’s services at Colchester Hospital.

Funds raised through the Background Bob initiative have enabled Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity to fully fund both the indoor and outdoor sensory spaces within the Children’s Department at Colchester Hospital.

This week, representatives from Noah’s family, clinical and estates teams, contractors and charity colleagues gathered on site to mark the official start of construction. Building work is expected to be completed by the end of March, with a formal opening event planned for the spring.

The Children’s Sensory Garden will provide a calm, interactive outdoor environment designed to support children’s wellbeing during their time in hospital. The thoughtfully designed space will offer opportunities for relaxation, gentle play and sensory engagement, helping to reduce anxiety and create moments of comfort during what can be a challenging experience.

Dr Angela Tillet, Chief Medical Officer, said:

“Noah’s story has touched so many people across our hospitals and the wider community, and it was incredibly special to come together with his family to mark the start of construction. Thanks to the incredible fundraising inspired by Background Bob, we are able to create a space that will enhance the experience of young patients and their families for years to come.”

Over the coming weeks, progress updates will be shared as the garden takes shape, building momentum towards its official opening later this spring.