By Isle of Wight Observer
A new heritage orchard has been planted at the IW Steam Railway in Havenstreet as part of efforts to support biodiversity and develop green spaces.
The project has been delivered in partnership with Wight Nature Fund and Havenstreet and Ashey Parish Council, using funding from The Tree Council through its Branching Out Fund.
Branching Out provides grants of between £250 and £2,500 to community groups, schools, small charities and Tree Warden Networks to establish trees, hedgerows and orchards during the winter planting season.
Wight Nature Fund, which administers the IW Tree Warden network, worked with the Steam Railway to secure the grant. A community planting day was held on Saturday, February 7, with support from local volunteers and railway volunteers.
Tony Barry, chairman of Havenstreet and Ashey Parish Council, attended in his role with the parish’s Tree Warden Scheme and as a trustee of the Steam Railway. He said the initiative would enrich the environment while helping preserve local and heritage fruit varieties.
Among the trees planted was ‘Howgate Wonder’, a heritage apple first raised in Howgate Lane, Bembridge, in 1915 and known for producing exceptionally heavy fruit. Another local variety, ‘Steyne Seedling’, first raised in 1893, was also included. It is described as juicy, sweet and highly aromatic.
Although it may be four or five years before the orchard produces fruit, spring blossom is expected to attract pollinating insects and improve the appearance of the site. In time, the trees are also expected to provide shade for visitors.
Steve Cowley, chairman of Wight Nature Fund, thanked The Tree Council for its support, along with everyone involved in creating the orchard.
Now in its 18th year, the Branching Out scheme has supported hundreds of community planting projects across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, helping to create new habitats for wildlife and long-term green spaces for communities.
