Town Council Supports Climate Action Wansbeck Project
Ashington Town Council is proud to continue its support for local sustainability initiatives, including the recent approval of further funding for Climate Action Wansbeck’s orchard project at the Wansbeck Road Allotment Site.
In addition to providing grant funding, the Council took an active role in helping the volunteers complete the heavy-lifting work required for the project, demonstrating that our support often goes beyond financial contributions.
The area has been transformed from derelict plots on the allotment site thanks to Climate Action Wansbeck and the Wansbeck Road Allotment Association. The project has been led by Mrs Margaret Adams and Mrs Lynn Norris who have secured funds from a number of local trusts and foundations including the St. James Knott Trust and Barbour Foundation.
The project has also been supported by the Oswin Project, who support people with criminal records access employment and training opportunities in the North East. When preparatory work is fully complete, fruit trees will be provided by the Great Northumberland Forest Project with funding from the Town Council supporting landscaping and fencing costs.
The Town Council’s Neighbourhood Services Officers, Mark Air and Ryan Appleby, worked alongside the volunteers on the project, in preparing the paths. The materials were supplied by the Council’s local suppliers JT Dove Ltd, further reinforcing our commitment to using local resources and labour.
Cllr Paul Wright, Chair of the Climate Change Committee, stated, “We are not just providing funding, we are rolling our sleeves up to make projects like this a reality. Supporting Climate Action Wansbeck’s orchard project is a tangible way for the Council to promote sustainable living and community engagement. It’s about making a measurable difference, both in grant funding and in the time and energy we commit.”
Mrs Margaret Adams, Chair of the Wansbeck Road Allotment Association, adds, “We appreciate the Town Council’s support, and it has been good to see plot holders on the site working with both the Oswin Project and Council staff in bringing the project to fruition. We look forward to the fruit trees being planted in coming weeks as well as planting up the beds with fruit and vegetables in the spring.”
In the photograph is Margaret (right) and allotment plot holder Mary Charlton who has volunteered on the project.
The Council's involvement in this project highlights its broader commitment to climate action and local empowerment. By working closely with volunteer groups like Climate Action Wansbeck, we continue to foster a greener, more sustainable future for Ashington.
Ashington Town Council remains dedicated to providing support to community projects, reinforcing our core values of collaboration and sustainability.
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