We are thrilled to announce the launch of our crowdfunding campaign where we are hoping to develop a Community Orchard Project at Blossom Barns, a vibrant green space dedicated to growing various fruit trees and fostering community engagement. This initiative aims to create a thriving natural habitat accessible to the public through events and open days. 

The orchard will feature wildflowers planted throughout to encourage biodiversity and support the fruit trees. There will be seated areas for visitors to relax and enjoy the orchard as well as accessible paths to ensure the area is inclusive to everyone.  

This project will bring people together for a shared purpose, creating a thriving natural community habitat by attracting more wildlife. It will raise awareness of food, nature, the environment, and the “eat what you grow” movement, while supporting local produce. It is a collaborative effort with local community, people with learning disabilities and nature groups to develop a valuable resource that will grow for years to come. 

Ceri Burgess, the Blossom Barns Manager said:   

“The Community Orchard project is something we really want the public to get behind as it is the first step towards our bigger vision for the site at Blossom Barns. The orchard project itself involves teamwork, educational value and at the end of the process – it will provide a beautiful space which everyone can be proud of, utilise and enjoy. The produce gathered from the orchard will be used in our jams, chutneys and seasonal cooking workshops. We will involve the community in this space as much as we can over the coming years in a variety of ways. It’s an exciting time to get involved with Blossom Barns!” 

We invite the community to join us in this exciting new project to create a green space that will benefit Chelmarsh and the surrounding areas. Together, we can create a space that promotes learning, well-being, and a deeper connection with nature.