Two new community orchards have been created in South Holland.
As part of a ‘Growing the Network’ project trees have been planted in Moulton Seas End Playing Field and off Cowley Road in Donington.
It follows a grant from a Sussex company appointed to refit local council homes.
Osborne Energy was appointed to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. It worked on properties eligible for funding in 2022.
After the work was completed, the company gave £6,500 to the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership of which South Holland District Council is part alongside East Lindsey and Boston Borough Councils.
The money has been spent on creating 15 orchards with 150 trees having been planted so far, a spokesman for the district council said, and volunteers would be trained to maintain them.
Coun Elizabeth Sneath, Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing, said: “It is fantastic that so many new community orchards have been created thanks to Osborne Energy’s work in delivering energy efficiency measures for our residents.
“The orchards will bring people together, support our residents to improve their health and wellbeing, as well as increasing biodiversity.
“Trees are vital for the important role they naturally play in capturing and storing carbon dioxide as well as creating enhanced green space. Residents will also be able to enjoy the fruit from the trees, all grown and harvested in their community.
“We thank Osborne Energy for the funding they have made.”.
“The orchards are an additional way we are supporting the environment following the work carried out to help residents retrofit their homes. We look forward to seeing them thrive.”
A spokesperson from Osborne Energy said: “We are dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of residents through our social value commitments, so are thrilled at the positive impacts this project will have on the local communities and local wildlife, as well as visitors to the areas.
“The project will benefit so many in a number of ways, both in the present and future.”
