Penhill Orchard in Swindon has walked away with the Overall award in this year’s Planting Places awards, recognising five top examples of greenspace across the South West for the input and influence they have in supporting healthy, sustainable communities and the people who work to make them special.
Any greenspace in the region that is free and accessible to the public could be nominated for the awards, and entries were received from all across the region and all types of greenspace; from parks, community gardens and allotments to green route cycle paths, playing fields and even cemeteries and rooftops.
The Penhill Orchard, planted on a disused allotment, sits right next to the Seven Fields Local Nature Reserve in Swindon. As well as providing free fruit for an area of disadvantage, it enhances the space for wildlife and provides and preserves a very pleasant place for the local community. It was set up in response to Swindon Healthy Eating group/campaign.
