Community Orchard

Shire Oak School planting

about the project

People who live in or around Headingley came together in spring 2010 to create small community orchards in the area.

The group is informal and anyone interested in supporting the orchard initiative with time, enthusiasm, expertise or money can get involved. For more information see www.headingleycommunityorchard.org.uk or contact JaniePS@aol.com.

The initiative is supported by Headingley Development Trust.

We want to improve the environment, increase biodiversity, contribute to a low-carbon economy, encourage healthy eating, create a resource for learning (for both local schools and people who want to learn about grafting and fruit growing) and eventually provide locally grown fruit at a reasonable price through Headingley Farmers Market - and all by planting a few fruit trees and bushes!

We identify unused or under-used land where fruit trees and bushes can be planted and cared for. We negotiate with the owners, prepare the ground, and then buy and plant appropriate trees. Anyone who likes digging is particularly appreciated.

There are three plots currently under development: one in Shire Oak Primary School, one behind the Natural Food Store and one on the perimeter of the field behind St Chad's Parish Centre. We hope to develop a Remembrance Orchard at the nearby war memorial.