A brand new community Christmas tree has been unveiled as the centre piece of a new woodland planted by local housing provider Orbit at Glebe Road in Stratford-upon-Avon.
To mark the occasion, Orbit hosted a free Christmas tree light switch-on event for residents, attended by local ward councillor Councillor Victoria Alcock and Father Christmas himself. Guests enjoyed a magical evening with mince pies and warming hot chocolate, courtesy of Orbit’s Better Days programme, which offers free advice on a range of issues to help support people’s wellbeing.
The Christmas tree will remain a permanent feature of the woodland, creating a focal point for festive celebrations for years to come. Alongside the tree, Orbit has planted 15 field maples, 10 hawthorns and 10 black elders.
Chloe Curtis-Dunn, Green Spaces Improvement Officer for Orbit said: “The newly planted woodland reflects Orbit’s commitment to sustainability and wellbeing, offering a natural space for relaxation and community connection. The Christmas tree will now serve as a focal point for annual celebrations, creating a tradition for residents to look forward to.”
Laura Read, Place Investment and Partnership Lead for Orbit’s Community Investment and Successful Tenancies Team that funded the project added: “We’re proud to invest in initiatives that bring the community together and make a positive difference to everyday life. We hope that the trees will help to create a vibrant green space that benefits both residents and local wildlife and that the Christmas tree be a symbol of shared celebration for years to come.”
Councillor Victoria Alcock who officially switched on the Christmas tree lights added: “I enjoyed the event very much and I look forward to many community events happening in the area.”
The creation of the new woodland at Glebe Road is part of Orbit’s work to ensure that 30% of its open spaces support nature’s recovery by 2030, aligning with the Wildlife Trusts’ 30 by 30’ campaign as well as the UN Convention’s goals on Biological Diversity.
As part of this a further three trees, 600 hedge plants and 570m2 of wildflower meadow have also recently been planted by Orbit at Meadow St Faith’s in nearby Alcester.
Orbit’s ’30 by 30’ commitment is part of a wider Orbit Earth programme of sustainable transformation. For more information about visit: www.orbitgroup.org.uk/sustainability/our-planet/