Community orchard funding

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Total Environment team has previously worked with a number of Parish Councils to create new community orchards. Increasing orchard provision will help provide opportunities and access to locally grown fruit, support biodiversity as well as naturally enhancing Cheshire’s landscape.

Funding is being sourced to support the 2024 planting season for a number of new orchards within our borough. Expressions of interest are invited from Town or Parish Councils or voluntary agencies who manage publically accessible land who are interested in creating a community orchard. As an indicator the minimum area requirement is roughly the size of a tennis court. Funding is available which will cover the cost of purchasing fruit trees, stakes and ties, with planting delivered as part of a community engagement activity. We are looking for potential schemes for delivery during the forthcoming planting season i.e. winter 2024. Subject to funding we are also hoping to run a fruit tree workshop to support volunteers with ongoing maintenance and management tasks.

Promotional footage which provides an overview of the scheme can be viewed here https://vimeo.com/795546906?login=true#_=_

To enquire or register your interest please email HealthRanger@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk quoting community orchard interest. Potential locations will be subject to a site visit to assess for suitability and funding approvals.