A donation of £6,500 by Osborne Energy has made possible 15 community orchards in the Boston, East Lindsey and South Holland areas of Lincolnshire
The company delivered retrofitting schemes on behalf of the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership to eligible residents who applied for Government funding in 2022 to improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
Following the delivery of those schemes, Osborne Energy awarded around £6,500 funding as part of its social value commitment which has led to the creation of the new community orchards.
They will all be managed and maintained locally by residents. Each will bring new health and wellbeing opportunities through connecting with the outdoors and physical activity.
Volunteers will receive ongoing support to help them learn more about orchard maintenance and it is hoped that the sites will provide a focal point for future events and community gatherings such as Apple Days and Wassails.
A spokesman for the council 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 of course increase 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 through their social value commitment.
“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 over the coming months.”
