Any large project such as Rydal is a system of complex funding and progress linked elements that have to be carried out in a sequential manner.

Well, to a gardener the nature of such processes appear several leagues away from the entirely natural and calm rhythm that growing plants gently shroud our profession.

What I'm trying to say is, is that at times the 3 hour long meetings that require constant concentration are a lot to take in. As I mentioned in last weeks Blog, Thursday was a daylong meeting involving the gardens advisory committee, project consultant and the main contractors for the garden's restoration. A vast amount was gained from the day and it was fantastic to clarify certain aspects' of the project.

It makes me realise that what makes or breaks such projects is the cohesion, communication and desire to make an idea work. The gardens committee is a valuable source of knowledge that at Rydal I am very lucky to have on my side. Obviously there are times when opinions differ, but on Thursday it was clear how well the group works. What could potentially be a brake on ideas is anything but, more the oil in the pistons of every new step we take in Rydal's on going development.

Whilst the herbaceous borders in the garden this week were finally dug over for their winter hibernation, Pete and Tony working on staircase one leading from the upper terrace gently and skilfully annihilated the bulk of the concrete elements that will have to be re-cast. There are three main areas that have to be completely re-cast whilst the steps and balustrades have to undergo some major cosmetic surgery. Whether the guys would describe it in those terms I'm not too sure.

It's fascinating to see (as someone who's construction skills cover only the basics) how the hard landscaping and concrete elements are put together. The roof of the small room on the main terrace and what forms the platform at the top of staircase one is composed of one entire concrete slab. This had to be broken up using a jackhammer by Pete and Tony. This work revealed 4 large pieces of railway line that had been used as the main supports. This practice was used extensively in construction during the early 20th century. At Rydal, the new slab that will be cast in-situ will use a steel gridwork cast into the slab.

Staircase one leads the visitor down from the upper terrace walk to the lower main terrace. Once the work is completed, the room that sits beneath the stairs will form a good store where equipment for the garden will be kept. Especially those awkward to carry on site. One major disadvantage with Mr Mawson's design at Rydal is the lack of access to the main terraces.

Perhaps the room created under the stairs was a sweetener to maintain even the most grumpy gardener's good humour?