Nursery children from Aylesbury were among a group of green-fingered gardeners helping to plant fruit trees recently at Barratt and David Wilson Homes’ flagship development, Kingsbrook.
The wildlife friendly project situated on Burcott Lane includes many open spaces, the community orchard being the latest in a string of initiatives to help create a home for nature.
The tree planting event was coordinated by Civic Trees, a tree supply, planting and relocation company which believes in creating a greener Britain. In total; three apple and three pear trees were planted by the volunteers. As well as children from the on-site nursery at Kingsbrook, local residents and ecologists from Aylesbury Vale District Council also dug out their wellies and got stuck in.
Barratt and David Wilson Kingsbrook Community Planting – Staff and Children from Aktiva Nursery
Orchards have played an important role in communities for many centuries. They provide a focal point, a gathering space and a place where people and nature successfully work together. Orchards are also beneficial as they take up excess rainfall, create habitats for wildlife and increase biodiversity.
Barratt and David Wilson Homes’ Kingsbrook development won silver at the What House Awards 2019 for Best Public Realm due to its progressive approach to wildlife-friendly housing and the abundance of green space within the development. Around 60% of Kingsbrook is made up of green space. As well as the community orchard, this includes ponds, parks, meadows and a nature reserve.
The developer has worked closely with the RSPB to cultivate a nature-friendly development. Adrian Thomas, Project Development Manager at the RSPB, said: “The idea of planting a community orchard at Kingsbrook was that it would benefit both the community and the wildlife.
“The blossom in spring will look beautiful whilst providing nectar and pollen for bees, and when the fruit grows, it can be harvested by the local community and any windfalls can be left for the thrushes.
“Kingsbrook is all about setting a new standard for a wildlife-friendly development, and the orchard is another wonderful and natural space for everyone to enjoy.”
Simon Francis, Managing Director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes North Thames, said: “The orchard is a great addition to Kingsbrook and along with the wildflower meadow planned for the area will be a beautiful space to be enjoyed for years to come.”
Barratt Homes currently has a range of three and four bedroom homes starting from £389,995 and David Wilson Homes has three and four bedroom homes available starting from £339,995.
For more information about Barratt Homes visit www.barratthomes.co.uk or call 0333 355 8500. Information on David Wilson Homes can be found at www.dwh.co.uk or by calling 0333 355 8501.