New community orchard launched to grow free fruit for West Sussex village

Lancing Parish Council held an orchard tree planting session and seed swap event on Saturday, March 7, at Lancing Community Garden, in East Lancing Recreational Ground, in Orient Road.

A total of ten trees were planted and the seed swap gave people an opportunity to meet the volunteers who care for the garden.

Fran Corney, community engagement and events manager, said: "Lancing Parish Council invited local volunteers to help us grow a greener future for our community, in partnership with Brighton Permaculture Trust.

"The community orchard will provide apple, pear and plum trees that foster community cohesion, enhance local biodiversity and offer free, fresh, organic and locally-sourced fruit.

"Over time, the orchard and surrounding hedgerows will become a valued community asset, offering fresh fruit, educational opportunities, free family events and wellbeing support."

Brighton Permaculture Trust is a Sussex-based charity that supports communities in boosting sustainability and improving biodiversity. It works across the region, helping to establish community orchards which provide access to free sources of healthy food and wellbeing support through local connections.

Overall, the charity has helped plant and support more than 200 orchards, bringing fresh, local fruit to schools, community spaces, and homes.

This community initiative aims to boost biodiversity and sustainability by providing new habitats for pollinators and wildlife, community engagement and wellbeing by bringing the community together to share a green space where residents can volunteer, learn new skills and get involved with free activities, and access to healthy food with fresh fruit for residents to enjoy, encouraging healthy and locally grown eating.