South Brent community project takes major step forward with Hope Wood decision

A seven-acre field at Hope Wood in South Brent has been transferred to a local community organisation to support food growing and orchard projects in the Dartmoor village.

South Hams District Council has approved the freehold transfer of the field to Sustainable South Brent, securing the long-term future of community food production and orchard management at the site.

The field forms part of the wider 65-acre Hope Wood site, which was purchased by the council in 2024.

Since then, almost 25,000 trees have been planted, while work has also taken place to restore grassland, create wildlife habitats and improve public access.

A community orchard has been established at the site, with volunteers from South Brent playing a major role in its development.

The project has become one of the largest community-led environmental initiatives in the South Brent area, on the southern fringe of Dartmoor National Park.

According to the council, more than 1,000 people of all ages have been involved in activities at Hope Wood.

The transfer will allow Sustainable South Brent to continue developing plans for a market garden and orchard, building on work already under way.

Councillor John McKay, South Hams District Council's executive member for climate change and biodiversity, said: "This transfer is another positive step in the story of Hope Wood.

"Hope Wood has already delivered real benefits for nature, the environment and people, from tree planting and habitat creation to volunteering and community involvement.

"By transferring this field to Sustainable South Brent, the council is helping to secure the next phase of that success and support a long-term community asset that will continue to grow for years to come."

Hope Wood was created as part of the council's efforts to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss.

The first 2,500 trees at the site were planted by local volunteers, with further planting and habitat improvements taking place in the years since.

South Hams District Council says the project contributes towards its aim of planting one tree for every household in South Hams.

Sustainable South Brent will now take ownership of the field as it develops its community orchard and market garden project.