Purley Sustainability Group

Community Orchard

6th December 2025 - we have planted!

24 members of the community gathered in the meadow and we dug holes, planted and the area now looks like it could be an orchard! Thank you so much for giving time and energy in making the morning a success. Check out the gallery

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Around 25 residents gathered in the Memorial Hall on 15th November to hear an update on the Purley Sustainability Group’s orchard project in Bucknell's Meadow. Although this project has been in motion for some time, we are thrilled to be moving into the next and very exciting phase, which we hope you and others will be part of. The group heard from Sean Morris, a passionate expert from Blewbury, who generously shared his experience and insights. His talk helped everyone understand what to expect as the orchard develops—and why patience will be key to its long-term success.

During the meeting guests also enjoyed some excellent fruit cakes—an early taste of the treats we can look forward to once the orchard is flourishing and producing fruit in years to come.

The meeting was filled with enthusiasm and a strong sense of shared passion for the orchard’s future.  Residents viewed artists’ impressions of the site’s future development, a model of the orchard, and information about the fruit trees already purchased. 

 We are aiming to get planting on 6th December at 10am in Bucknell's Meadow - subject to the delivery of the trees and the weather of course.

 Volunteers of all ages* are warmly welcomed at this event—whether to dig, measure, serve refreshments, or simply provide moral support. 

 During the meeting, PSG took the opportunity to thank everyone who has helped bring the project to this point. Grants from Purley Parish Council, Purley Park Trust, Veolia, Pangbourne Rotary, along with generous private donations, have made this work possible, supported by the expertise and enthusiasm of many volunteers.

 Any queries, please do not hesitate to contact info@purleysustainability.co.uk 

 *Children must be accompanied by an adult.

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In a significant step towards sustainability and community involvement, the Purley Sustainability Group is moving forward with the creation of a community orchard on the land allocated to them. This orchard will not only provide fresh, local produce but also serve as a green space for education and relaxation. The initial presentation made to Purley Parish Council in April 2024 can be found here, and we have a follow up Residents Meeting on 15th November 2.30 pm at the Memorial Hall. Please join us to learn more

The journey continues…. with a planting day on 6th December 2025 - perhaps you want to join us?

Maybe you you like to sponsor a tree? They are costing approx £36 - please drop an email to info@purleysustainability.co.uk or complete the form below if you would like to know more

Thank you