Community Orchard Scheme Gets Cash Boost

A scheme which aims to create new orchards across Leicestershire has been given a major cash boost.

The County Council has received £28,000 of government funding so it can continue to give community groups, parish councils and schools free packs of fruits trees for at least another year.

The community orchards scheme was launched in 2022, when 50 trees were provided to schools and community groups.

This increased to 300 trees in 2023, with the new funding aiming to provide trees and support to 20 new larger schemes in 2024.

So far, 25 schools, 16 parishes, one borough council and one farm have been able to plant new orchards or improve an existing orchard.

Councillor Blake Pain, cabinet member for the environment and the green agenda, said: “Orchards and trees play a vital role in enriching our ecosystem and improving biodiversity.

“The community orchards scheme gives voluntary and community groups the opportunity to make a real difference to our environment and play their part in making Leicestershire a cleaner and greener place to live and work.

“The creation of a number of new orchards throughout the county gives us a unique opportunity to create green spaces that not only provide fresh and healthy produce but also serve as havens for wildlife and a boost to our goal of helping to plant 700,000 trees in Leicestershire.

“We are delighted that Defra has recognised the importance of this scheme, and given us the funding to ensure it can continue to grow and thrive.”

Groups who would like to apply for one of the tree packs should contact the council’s Forestry team on forestry@leics.gov.uk