Community orchard taking shape after £50k investment secured

With help from local business Northern Lily CIC, Oldham Council’s Environment Team and other partners, three Labour Councillors successfully applied to the King’s Community Heritage Fund for grants to design, install and maintain the orchard.

Their application was successful, granting the group £50,000 to invest.

The site at Granby Street is the first of four in Chadderton, with the other three sites yet to be decided.

Cllrs Holly Harrison, Chris Goodwin and Graham Shuttleworth, who represent the South Chadderton ward, are inviting residents to join the councillors and community groups at Granby Street for a Community Planting Day on Saturday, March 16, commencing at 10am.

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Once the orchard is fully bedded in, there will be regular events on the site, some which will aim to help residents learn more about caring for the apple, pear and plum trees that are being planted so they can enjoy a plentiful harvest.

Cllr Harrison said: “I am absolutely thrilled that our plans for a King’s Coronation Orchard have come to fruition.

“Besides bringing nearly £50,000 investment into Chadderton, we all know the importance of open spaces and the strength of community spirit from the Covid days. It is hoped that this is exactly what our community Orchard will bring to the local community.

“With events planned through the year, from blossom picnics to fruit tree pruning, I am certain it will be a fantastic addition to Chadderton South.

“I for one cannot wait to bake an apple crumble with fruit just picked from a tree.”