A previously unused area of land at Greencore’s Sutton Bridge site (formerly Bakkavor) has been transformed into a thriving new orchard, creating a lasting legacy for colleagues, enhancing the site’s environment and wellbeing offering.
The project was spearheaded by Terry Goodale, Logistics Manager at the site, whose vision turned a piece of waste ground at the entrance to the site into a vibrant green space. The orchard has been made possible through the generosity of colleagues, who donated many of the fruit trees now planted across the area.
To mark the completion of the project, MP Steve Barclay visited the site on 26 June to plant the 75th and final tree and officially open the orchard.
The orchard has been designed as a multi-purpose space that will deliver benefits for years to come. As well as improving the appearance of the site and creating a more welcoming arrival experience, it will provide a peaceful wellbeing area for employees to enjoy during breaks. In the years ahead, the trees will also produce fresh fruit that can be shared among colleagues.
A number of the trees have also been designated as memorial trees, with commemorative plaques installed to honour and remember loved ones, creating a deeply personal connection between employees and the orchard.
Terry Goodale, Logistics Manager, said:
“This project started with a simple idea to make better use of an unused area of land and create something that would benefit everyone on site. The response from colleagues has been fantastic, with many donating trees and supporting the orchard’s development. It’s rewarding to see it come to life and know it will provide a space for wellbeing, reflection and enjoyment for many years to come.”
Justin Waldock, Head of Site Operations, said:
“This orchard is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when colleagues come together behind a shared vision. What was once an unused piece of land has been transformed into a valuable asset for the site that will benefit our people for generations to come. It creates a welcoming first impression for visitors, provides a dedicated space for wellbeing and reflection, and will eventually produce fruit for colleagues to enjoy. The fact that so many of the trees were donated by employees, with some dedicated in memory of loved ones, makes this a particularly special project and one that reflects the strong sense of community we have across the site.”
Welcoming Steve Barclay to the site for the official opening was a fitting way to celebrate the milestone and recognise the collective effort behind the project.
