Sweet orchard growing 'free fruit for residents' planted in Nottingham park

Residents in west Nottingham are to benefit from a new community orchard, which has been planted to help ease the cost of living. 

A total of 16 fruit trees have been added to the Cator Lane Recreation Ground in Beeston thanks to a partnership between Broxtowe Borough Council, Incredible Edible, Canopy 2050 and the 2nd Chilwell Scout Group. 

Mayor of Broxtowe, Councillor Teresa Cullen, was among those helping to plant fruit trees at the new community orchard on Monday (February 19). 

Read more: Your Nottingham

It’s hoped that the free fruit growing in the orchard will provide a helpful resource through the challenging cost-of-living crisis, providing a locally-grown food source for the community.

Residents can pick apples, cherries, plums and pears for free. 

The trees will also supply shade and habitat for animals, while helping to store carbon dioxide for better air quality. 

Portfolio Holder for Environment and Climate Change, Councillor Helen Skinner said, “The orchard will be a valuable addition to this lovely park. 

“I look forward to seeing the trees bear fruit, in years to come, for residents to enjoy. It’s a great idea to use the bark from the play area as mulch.”