A diamond-shaped orchard growing amid wild flowers in a spot with its own picnic area – that is the vision for the apple tree orchard being planned for Marlborough Common.
Details of the tribute to mark the anniversary of the Queen’s 60 years on the throne were given to Marlborough town council’s Amenities and Open Space Committee on Monday by Philippa Davenport, founder of the town’s Apple Day initiative.
But before it goes ahead the council is to consult with the Commons User Group on its proposals for an area some 30 by five metres near the site of the Marlborough Rugby Club, off Frees Avenue.
“We need to float the idea to get reactions,” said committee chairman Councillor Richard Pitts, who pointed out that the apple trees will all be rare Wiltshire varieties.
And Philippa added that they would be half-standard trees so there would be no danger of people climbing them and possibly falling to the ground once they have grown.
There will also be another area of mixed fruit trees, including plums and pears. “And the fruit will be reachable to pick,” she said.
Councillor Peggy Dow declared: “Having a picnic area will be an ideal way of encouraging people to use this spot.”