Orchard Project Branches Out
The Orchard Project at the QEII Gardens is the subject of
Bewdley Museum's first exhibition for 2010.
The exhibition titled 'Jubilee Gardens Orchard Project' uses
materials from local archives, maps and up to date photographs to
explain the past, present and future of orchards in the
area.
Wyre Forest District Council is working in partnership with
local organisations to create a traditional orchard at the southern
end of the QEII Jubilee Gardens, which adjoin Bewdley Museum. This
is part of a wider community project designed to reverse the
decline in the number of orchards, both county and
countrywide.
Children aged 7-11 from Bewdley Primary School and St Anne's
Primary School got involved in the project last autumn. They toured
the site and learnt more about the project from Wyre Forest
District Council's Parks Team and Rangers. The children also
made mini clay models and collages inspired by fruit and wildlife.
They will be going back to the site in the Spring to help plant
approximately eighty trees in the orchard.
The Council is felling non-native sycamore trees, which had
self-set before it took over ownership of the land. Most of
the tree clearance, to make way for the orchard, took place in
November. Work is also well underway on the play sculptures,
which are due to be installed at the end of this month. It is
hoped the new orchard will be open to the public at the end of May
- to coincide with the Discover Bewdley Weekend.
Councillor Marcus Hart, Wyre Forest District Council's Cabinet
Member for Community and Partnership Services said,
"A traditional orchard will have great benefits for the local
community and wildlife. We are delighted with the progress
and the support we've received for this project. The
exhibition in the Severn Gallery will give people more of an
insight into what the area used to be like and what we're hoping to
achieve. "
The exhibition is now open. It can be viewed at the Severn
Gallery in Bewdley Museum and Tourist Information Centre. It
is open daily from 12noon until 4.00pm until Friday 26th
March.
The Museum reopens on 2nd April. For more
information visit the museum pages of
this website or contact the museum on 01299 403573
Anyone who would like more information about the Orchard Project
should contact tony.link@wyreforestdc.gov.uk
or call 01562 732913
Date of issue - 12th February
2010