£50k investment will help transform Chadderton area into Community Orchard

Image courtesy of the Oldham Labour Group

Chadderton South Labour Councillors have begun planting fruit trees at Granby Street in Chadderton as part of plans to transform the area into a Community Orchard.

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

The site at Granby Street is the first of four in Chadderton, with the other three sites not yet decided.

Residents are invited to join the Councillors and community groups at Granby Street for a Community Planting Day on Saturday week, March 16, commencing at 10am.

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

Local Councillor Holly 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!”

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