The Dartmouth Community Orchard, on Ridge Hill, is a public space regularly used by many residents and visitors for dog-walking, exercise, quiet contemplation, picnicking and play. 

Orchard users enjoy spectacular and uplifting views over the Britannia Royal Naval College and the River Dart from the orchard. Its Oaks, Sweet Chestnut and Monterey pine are highly prominent on the skyline, making it a beautiful place for nature study.

We believe the Orchard is:
- A community asset that should be open to members of the public and their well behaved pets at all times.
- A place to conserve West Country fruit tree species, especially apples.
- A valuable space for a range of wildlife, both in itself and as part of a network of green spaces in and around Dartmouth.

But Dartmouth Councillors have repeatedly raised the possibility of developing the orchard for housing or car parking, thus destroying this beautiful place. We are not averse to building houses, and accept that Dartmouth needs affordable housing. We just do not feel it is necessary to sacrifice a historic orchard, an important link in the green matrix for biodiversity and a community asset to build them on the orchard.

Please sign our petition to help protect this special Dartmouth place for future generations to enjoy.

Thank you.