We’re pleased to announce that Round Two of the Wealden Community Orchard Fund will be open for applications from Friday 28 November 2025. The application window will close at 5pm on 30 January 2026* (*subject to change).
Following the success of Round One, this next round of funding continues our support for community and voluntary groups, schools, charities, and town/parish councils to plant and care for community orchards across Wealden. These shared green spaces help to strengthen community connections, support biodiversity, and contribute to climate resilience.
What is the grant for?
This grant programme offers funding for projects that create, restore, or enhance community orchards in Wealden. Projects can be small or large and might include:
- New community orchard planting.
- Expanding or enriching existing orchards.
- Bringing neglected orchards back into community use.
- Hosting orchard-related community events.
- Educational activities, e.g. forest schools.
- Adding biodiversity features such as wildflower areas or habitat improvements to support wildlife and ecological value.
The aim is to help communities develop shared outdoor spaces that support nature, climate action, food growing, and social wellbeing.
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from a range of community focused groups, including:
- Constituted community and voluntary groups.
- Community interest companies (CICs).
- Town and Parish Councils.
- Local schools.
- Residents’ associations.
- Friends-of groups
- Environmental or horticultural groups.
- Charities.
If you’re not sure whether your group is eligible, please get in touch before applying.
How much funding is available?
Applicants can apply for grants up to £3,500, to support their orchard project.
Key dates
- Applications open: 28 November 2025
- Deadline to apply: 30 January 2026*
- Projects must be delivered by: 1 March 2027.
*Subject to change.
How to apply
Please read the full Guidance document before applying. The Guidance document is available on our Climate Change Hub
This includes details on eligibility, what we can and cannot fund, and support available.
Once read, please email sustainability@wealden.gov.uk to receive an application pack.
Once completed, please submit your application form along with relevant documents to sustainability@wealden.gov.uk.
Need help or have a question?
If you’d like to discuss your idea before applying, or need help with the application process, we’re happy to help.
Background
This grant programme is part of Wealden District Council’s wider work on climate action, biodiversity recovery, and community wellbeing. Community orchards provide a space for people to come together, learn new skills, grow food, and reconnect with nature.
To learn more about our climate and nature work, please visit our Climate Change Hub. For additional context, please see the Wealden District Council Strategy.