Meet the group transforming neglected urban spaces into thriving orchards

In a bid to foster community bonds, combat climate change, and enhance biodiversity, The Orchard Project has been on a mission to unlock the potential of community orchards in Greater Manchester.

The Orchard Project

Since its inception in 2009, The Orchard Project has planted and restored over 700 community orchards throughout England, Wales, and Scotland.

In Greater Manchester alone, the organisation has successfully planted and restored 50 orchards, with the count still rising.

Redeveloping Longsight’s Crowcroft Park

The latest endeavour involves the transformation of an unused bowling green in Longsight’s Crowcroft Park into a vibrant orchard garden.

Collaborating with project partners Sustainable Northmoor by Urban Greening (SNUG), The Orchard Project is employing innovative forest garden techniques.

You can find out more about SNUG by clicking here

We sat down with Elsa, from the project to talk about what was going on.

She said: “Currently, we’re transforming an unused bowling green in Longsight, Crowcroft Park, into a lively orchard garden with project partners Sustainable Northmoor by Urban Greening (SNUG).

“We are employing innovative forest garden techniques where we will underplant the fruit trees with beneficial herbs and perennial plants. This will transform the bowling green into a vibrant community space that is not only beautiful but productive.

“At a recent hedgerow planting event, we had a family attend representing three generations! Both the grandmother and grandkids got stuck in planting native hedge plants.

While planting the hedgerow, Iman, eleven years old, expressed, ‘We are doing something great for the world!’.

It is empowering for community members to make a positive impact on their doorstep.

Fruit trees are being underplanted with beneficial herbs and perennial plants, turning the once-neglected bowling green into a lively and productive community space.

A recent hedgerow planting event showcased the inclusive nature of The Orchard Project’s initiatives, with a family representing three generations actively participating.

Grandparents and grandchildren alike eagerly planted native hedge plants, embodying the intergenerational impact of community-led environmental projects.

This empowerment of community members to make a positive impact on their doorstep is at the heart of The Orchard Project’s ethos.

The Orchard Advantage

So, why orchards?

The Orchard Project focuses on orchards as a low-maintenance, high-yield solution for urban areas.

Beyond providing organic produce, these orchards transform underused urban spaces into essential green oases.

The repurposing of neglected areas into flourishing orchards directly addresses the critical need for local greenspaces and strengthens community connections.

The impact of orchards goes beyond mere looks.

Orchards contribute to enhanced tree coverage, cooling urban environments, absorbing excess rainfall, and creating habitats for wildlife.

Fruit trees, particularly suited for small spaces, hold the designation of ‘Priority Habitats’ by Natural England and DEFRA, underscoring their crucial role in biodiversity conservation.

However, the benefits of orchards extend beyond environmental considerations.

Orchards serve as community hubs, offering spaces for activities that bring people together, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in local environments.

Join the Movement

The Orchard Project invites residents of Greater Manchester to join their mission.

Planting orchards is not just about combating climate change and supporting biodiversity; it’s also about strengthening social bonds.

The organisation is gearing up for upcoming events, including espalier tree planting, orchard planting, and community Wassail events.

For those eager to contribute or suggest locations for future orchards, The Orchard Project encourages engagement.

If you have a space in mind that could benefit from a community orchard and have the necessary landowner permissions, reach out to Elsa at Greater Manchester Project Manchester via email at [email protected].

Stay connected with The Orchard Project’s initiatives, events, and progress by visiting their website here

Let’s grow together and make a tangible, positive impact on Greater Manchester’s green landscape.

The Orchard Project is not just planting trees; they’re planting a sustainable future for communities to thrive in.