A partnership between SP Energy Networks and The Tree Council is funding a programme to plant tens of thousands of trees across the company's network area in Scotland. The £500,000 initiative is helping communities cut carbon and enhance local green spaces, with The Inverclyde Shed among the beneficiaries through the creation of a large community orchard with Clydeview Academy in Gourock.

The project has established a shared space that will anchor an ongoing collaboration between The Inverclyde Shed, The Orchard Project and Clydeview Academy. Annual maintenance workshops, learning opportunities and community events are planned to build practical skills and deepen local connections.

Funding has been pivotal in delivering the orchard, enabling The Inverclyde Shed to purchase heritage fruit tree varieties and essential materials including stakes, ties, stem protectors and PPE for safe planting.

Aligned to The Inverclyde Shed's charitable aims to advance social needs and improve the health and wellbeing of people of all ages and backgrounds in Inverclyde, the orchard is a long-term investment. With regular care, it will provide food, learning opportunities and social interaction for years to come.

The planting comprises 95 apple trees, 17 plum trees, 15 cherry trees and 5 pear trees. Designed to endure, the orchard is expected to thrive for more than 25 years, offering annual harvests, hands-on education and a valuable habitat for local wildlife, as well as a welcoming outdoor space for the community.

-- Advertisement --

A total of 45 volunteers took part in the planting, around 90% of whom were aged 12–18. They were joined by two members of The Inverclyde Shed and volunteers from the local community justice team. Participants learned tree-planting techniques, tree identification, rootstocks and the lifecycle of trees, working together to enhance the environment and boost biodiversity.

Bruce Newlands, Inverclyde Shed, said: "Being part of this project has been a fantastic experience for everyone involved. The collaboration between SP Energy Networks and The Tree Council has been incredibly positive. It's been inspiring to see so many young people and volunteers come together to create something that will benefit the community for generations.

"We're genuinely excited about what the future holds for the orchard. This space will continue to grow – literally and figuratively through annual maintenance workshops, learning opportunities and community events. It's already becoming a place where people can connect, learn new skills and enjoy the outdoors.

"I'd encourage any community group thinking about applying for this programme to go for it. The support we've received has been invaluable, and the impact on our local area will be felt for years to come."

Aileen Rourke, SP Energy Networks Scotland Distribution Director, said: "I'm delighted to see how our partnership with The Tree Council is bringing young people and local groups together to make a real difference in their communities. The work at Inverclyde Shed is a brilliant example – young people planting trees that will benefit local residents for generations to come."

Sara Lom, The Tree Council's Chief Executive, said: "I hope more communities can make the most of this partnership and reap the long-term benefits. It's inspiring to see what can be achieved when we come together to create greener, healthier places for everyone.

"It's fantastic to see groups like Inverclyde Shed making a tangible difference to their communities and local landscapes through tree planting. We know that bringing people together to plant trees fosters a sense of shared ownership, learning and care that is essential to help trees establish and grow to maturity. The young people involved have learnt skills they can use for the rest of their lives to the benefit of people, wildlife and our planet.

"We are delighted to re-open the SP Energy Networks Community Tree Planting Fund for the 26/27 planting season and encourage applicants to apply as early as you can to avoid disappointment. Together we can deliver the joy of trees to more communities."