Community Orchard
Bringing the community together and helping to restore nature
We are pleased to announce that we are working together with Reigate and Banstead BC, Reigate Area Conservation Volunteers and Growing Health Together, to bring an orchard to the community of Woodhatch.
We have applied to Reigate and Banstead Borough Council for permission to plant the orchard on the green space at New Pond Farm, opposite Earlswood Lakes car park, and close to New Pond Farm allotments. Access can be also be gained via the paths from Felland Way and Lonesome Lane.
Our vision is for the Community Orchard to be easily accessible by all, that the orchard remains a Public Open Space, and open to all, and thus free for all to enjoy.
Project aims and environmental benefits:
To deliver a community orchard for the benefit of the whole local community.
Plant a variety of fruit trees, that will provide a source of free fruit to the community and local food banks and increase carbon storage bringing environmental benefits.
Offer a space for community events and outdoor education activities.
Provide a safe place for members of the community to relax, enjoy and connect with nature.
Offer opportunities for the community to become involved in planting and maintaining the orchard themselves.
Deliver community events/days promoting environmental education and community engagement
Opportunities for local schools, scouting groups, and other community groups to play an active role should they wish to.
Create a more diverse range of habitat within the overall site, increasing wildlife, flora and fauna, by managed appropriately to increase the diversity of plants and pollinators.
Grass appropriately managed to increase the diversity of plants and pollinators.
Our goal is to work closely with local partners to help promote community engagement with the Community Orchard and all it has to offer, to help maximise benefits and ensure they match the local community needs, and help promote an active and healthy lifestyle for all.
Proposed Project Timetable:
- Late summer 2023 - Grass cutting, and removal of cut material
- Autumn 2023 - Clearing areas for tree planting, and sowing Yellow Rattle seed
- Autumn/Winter 2023 Phase 1 planting - first 20 trees
- January 2024 - First Wassail event
- Spring 2024 onwards - Protect new trees, monitor and water as required
- Autumn 2024 - optional phase 2 planting