SP Energy Networks’ partnership with The Tree Council is delivering a programme to plant tens of thousands of trees across its network area in Scotland. The programme backed by £500,000 of funding is helping communities in Scotland go greener. Inverclyde Shed is among the organisations benefitting, working with Clydeview Academy in Gourock to create a large community orchard.
The project has provided a space and community which will form the basis of an ongoing collaboration between The Inverclyde Shed, The Orchard Project and Clydeview Academy. This partnership will continue through annual maintenance workshops, learning opportunities and community events, helping to build skills and strengthen local connections.
The funding has been crucial to delivering the orchard for the community in Inverclyde allowing Inverclyde Shed to buy materials of heritage tree varieties, stakes, ties, stem protectors and PPE for tree planting.
The orchard supports Inverclyde Shed charitable purposes of advancing social needs, health and well-being of people of all ages and backgrounds living in the Inverclyde area. It represents a generational investment – one that will require ongoing care which in return will provide a lasting source of food, learning and social engagement.
The orchard includes:
The planting has created a long-term community asset expected to thrive for over 25 years. It will offer annual harvests, hands-on learning experiences and a valuable habitat for local wildlife. The fruit will support community members while offering a natural space for people to come together and enjoy the outdoors.
A total of 45 volunteers has taken part in the tree planting efforts – 90% of whom were between 12 and 18 years old. They were joined by two members from Inverclyde Shed and volunteers from the local community justice team. Volunteers have gained practical skills in tree planting, tree identification, rootstocks and the lifecycle of trees. They have worked collaboratively to improve the environment and bring greater 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.”
About Inverclyde Shed
The Inverclyde Shed is a 100% volunteer run grassroots organisation with the aim of providing spaces for people to come together, be involved, grow and share their skills and experiences. We operate a community workshop in Greenock and community growing spaces across Inverclyde at Port Glasgow, Greenock and Gourock.
We aim to reduce social isolation and loneliness through activities where people can build genuine lasting friendships, improve their physical and mental wellbeing and develop their capacity to share their skills and knowledge with others in the community.
About SPEN x The Tree Council partnership
The Tree Council and SP Energy Networks are working in partnership to deliver a programme of tree planting between 2024 and 2028. Together with local communities, we will plant trees across central and southern Scotland, with a specific focus in areas such as parks, schools, and community spaces. Hedgerow planting, community orchards and other urban planting schemes will also be supported.