West Oxfordshire District Council has announced the second round of community orchard funding inviting applications from local groups.

This initiative follows a successful first round, where six community groups were awarded funding, resulting in the planting of 65 fruit trees, including apple, pear, plum, and cherry varieties.

The Council received £50,000 from the Coronation Living Heritage Fund to support the creation of community orchards across the district.

The first round of funding saw orchards planted by Hanborough Manor Church of England School, 1st Wychwoods Scout Group, Shilton Parish Council, Burford Town Council, Clanfield Community Orchard, and The Sanctuary Community Garden at Carterton Methodist Church.

Giles Hughes, chief executive of West Oxfordshire District Council, expressed his enthusiasm for the project.

He said: “We’re delighted with the orchards that have been created following the initial round of funding and are looking forward to receiving proposals from parish and town councils, schools, landowners, and other groups within the community that would like to get involved and plant trees this autumn and winter. Orchards bring numerous benefits, including food production, community engagement, and biodiversity enhancement.”

Jonathan Ayres, deputy group Scout Leader for 1st Wychwoods Scout Group, highlighted the positive impact on their community.

He said:  “This was the perfect opportunity for us as we were recently given use of an abandoned allotment to help the children learn about planting and growing fruit and vegetables.

“Our mini orchard will be enjoyed and nurtured by beavers, cubs, and scouts at 1st Wychwoods and the wider community for many years to come.”

The second funding round is now open and parish and town councils, schools, landowners, and community groups are encouraged to apply.

The orchards must be publicly accessible or accessible to a significant number of people.

Community orchards can be any size larger than five trees and fruit trees should be selected that are able to thrive in UK environments.   

The initiative aims to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III and contribute to the restoration and protection of natural ecosystems, aligning with the Council’s Nature Recovery Plan 2024-2030 and the forthcoming Oxfordshire Local Nature Recovery Strategy.

To support interested applicants, the council has funded a free webinar, hosted by the International Tree Foundation, on June 19.

The webinar will provide guidance on tree selection, orchard design, and maintenance.

Applications close on July 31, with successful applicants notified in August and planting expected between September 2024 and March 2025.