Newport

In 2024-25, four community orchards were created across Newport by the Local Nature Partnership with the help of school children and volunteers.

Woodlands of any type contribute to both climate change mitigation, in that they absorb and store CO2, and also contribute to climate change adaptation through a cooling effect on the immediate environment and attenuating rainwater during extreme weather events. In addition, orchards offer the benefits of a different type of biodiversity to normal woodland, thereby increasing habitat diversity. They are also a great community asset providing a food source and a tranquil space for residents.

The LNP surveyed local sites, considering their proximity to local schools, so that children could be involved in the project. They carried out a community consultation, which involved a survey for residents on NCC social media sites, and also leafleted the homes close to the spaces where the planted orchards were to be planted. They also undertook in-person consultation at the proposed sites.

They engaged with the schools closest to the sites and talked to their eco committees about orchards and orchard biodiversity. From the consultation, they gathered names of people who might be interested in volunteering, and then ran training sessions for them. There was a tree planting training session and three orchard planting days that were well attended by school groups and the general public. Once volunteer groups were established, training continued into 2026, on orchard management and pruning.

The project faced some challenges. Choosing site locations was difficult, especially trying to accommodate the needs of different stakeholders. The project faced mixed reactions during the consultation, some around how the money could have been spent differently considering the complex local needs. People were also concerned they may attract antisocial behaviour or be damaged. There were genuine concerns over both the accessibility and slope of one orchard.

The LNP created a smaller orchard in a more accessible space near to the one with accessibility concerns, taking time to discuss possible issues with all stakeholders. Wherever possible they met with people and discussed their concerns.

By the end of March 2025, four new community orchards were planted across Newport, comprising a total of over 125 fruit trees. The apple and pear trees were Welsh heritage varieties of mostly local provenance. Companion planting in the form of smaller fruit bushes such as blackcurrant and gooseberries were also added. Three volunteer groups were established, and they engaged with three schools to help look after the orchards. Tree planting was undertaken by school children and volunteers, as was bulb planting. An orchard newsletter is planned as well as a map of orchards across Newport.

Four local communities now have an orchard they can use to gather food and as a community space for events and learning. Schools intend to use them as outdoor learning spaces. The LNP have created a space that will offer a different habitat for species in an area that was previously just mown amenity grassland, thereby supporting nature recovery. One local resident commented that the project “is an amazing opportunity to provide food and education to the local communities.”