We want to create an orchard with a strong focus on providing local residents from a deprived area and a local food bank access to fresh fruit as part of their five a day.

We're going to create an orchard in a disused run down play area which has been left derelict for several years. The area is fenced off is part concrete and part grass. We want to plant mature fruit trees in the grass area and build using recycled materials several large raised beds.

We want to plant large shrubs to ensure fruit the first year of planting. Some of the produce will be given to the local food bank helping local residents living on or close to the breadline. Other fruit will be given to local elderly residents and anyone from the local community who wishes to have some.

Friends of Charlton Brook is run by volunteers and we will maintain the area for the forseeable future, working in partnership with the local park rangers.

What we'll deliver:

• Install a sign.
• Clear the disused area of rubbish and debris.
• Create a walkway between each raised bed to allow access to all the produce.
• Create large raised beds from recyled materials.
• Install a large robust water butt.
• Plant large fruit trees.

Why it's a great idea:

By revitalising this dead space we can create an orchard which will engage local residents and produce a high yield of edible fruits, vegetable and herbs.

We want to encourage local residents/schools to get involved too - by helping out with gardening or getting involved with projects for the children. This should help the orchard become a destination for all generations to enjoy.

There’s a huge wealth of great things we can do with this space - like holding planting or harvesting days - and we’re certain that lots of people will want to volunteer and get involved.

Steps to get it done:

• Install the raised beds and fruit shrubs, vegetables and herbs.
• Purchase and install the water butt.
• Clear and prepare the area with local volunteers.
• Create pathways to give access to the raised beds.
• Plant the large fruit trees.
• Purchase recycled wood from the local wood yard to make the raised beds.

Everything will be completely natural and environmentally friendly - from our gardening practices to the materials used for building - ensuring it’s all in harmony with nature.

We are working closely with the park rangers and local Community Forestry Manager.