The ‘secret’ orchard which grew out of Exeter’s flood defence scheme

A budding offshoot of the Environment Agency’s flood defence scheme in Exeter has become a blooming marvelous destination for nature and fruit lovers in the city.

The Exeter scheme uses the natural landscape to reduce flood risk, while at the same time conserving habitat for wildlife.

Planted over five years ago during an early construction phase of the scheme, the FLOW community orchard alongside the Exe at Exwick and St Thomas has become a popular ribbon of nature along the river valley.

Managed by a community interest company of volunteers, the orchard became a haven for people needing to connect with nature for their wellbeing during the pandemic. Now there are regular events like wildlife safaris, picnics, musical events, wassails and sound walks where you are encouraged to listen for certain noises at select locations.

Nearly 200 trees were planted and most bear fruit or nuts, with maps showing what grows where during the year and if it is best to eat it, jam it or ferment it into cider.

Fish passes have been installed to help migratory fish, and habitat for juvenile coarse fish created. Other animals benefiting from the scheme include otters with an extensive area of new wet woodland, butterflies and bees.

During the scheme’s construction, steps were taken not to disrupt existing wildlife, with a new badger sett provided and the protection of a mixed colony of bats living in an old lime kiln.

Mary-Rose Lane, biodiversity specialist for the Environment Agency, said: "It feels fantastic we’ve been able to transform the river valley into such a rich and vibrant space for people and wildlife.

"People are taking the time to stop, explore and enjoy the space because of all the environmental and landscape improvements. It is one of the most creative and productive projects I’ve ever been involved with at the EA.

"During one visit I met a sheepish-looking woman with a shopping bag who asked if she was allowed to take fruit from the trees? I said, ‘Of course. That’s why they are here’ and helped her collect some damsons.

"As well as fruit trees, the orchard also has a few experimental trees like almond and apricot to see how they fare with the changing climate. This place is a real-world example of the environmental benefits that can stem from a well-planned flood defence scheme."