Field in Chadderton to be transformed into fruit orchard thanks to £50K boost

An unassuming field at the end of Granby Street in Chadderton will soon be unrecognisable as it is transformed into a lavish fruit orchard this Saturday.

After winning a £50k government grant, a team of community groups, local councillors and Oldham Council’s environment workers have hatched a plan for four new community gardens in the borough, with Granby Street to become the first. 

Local nonprofit Northern Lily CIC is hosting an event to plant trees on the plot this Saturday, at 10am.

The orchard will be home to apple, pear and plum trees, as well as greengage, quince and nut bushes. 

Cllr Holly Harrison, who helped launch the project, said: “I think it’s really important to have these community spaces that bring people together for different activities – and get some free fruit along the way! 

“It’s also about teaching children where fruit comes from. There’s nothing more precious than children being able to see where their food comes from, to pick their own and be involved in nature.” 

The group has picked out relatively big trees, so local residents can expect their first harvest this year. 

“I for one cannot wait to bake an apple crumble with fruit just picked from a tree!” said Coun Harrison, a keen gardener who has represented Chadderton South since May 2023. 

Other events, led by Northern Lily, will include workshops on pruning, grafting, and juice making, and activities like blossom picnics and harvests. The non-profit nature group also noted the environmental benefits of the project. 

The orchard “will also serve as essential foraging habitats for birds, as well as various invertebrates,” they posted on social media, and “by planting and caring for these trees, we’ll strengthen our connection to the land and each other.” 

The planting and maintenance is being financed by the King’s Community Heritage Fund, a £2.5 million government program supporting tree planting to commemorate King Charles III’s coronation. The “Coronation Community Orchard” in Chadderton South received the maximum amount of funding – £50k. 

Cllr Harrison said: “I am absolutely thrilled that our plans for a King’s Coronation Orchard have come to fruition. 

“Besides bringing nearly £50,000 investment into Chadderton, we all know the importance of open spaces and the strength of community spirit from the covid days. With events planned through the year, I am certain it will be a fantastic addition to Chadderton South.” 

Three more sites are being picked for community orchards, though exact locations are undecided as of yet.