Step away from the bustling, frenetic Cable Street in Tower Hamlets, navigate through the estate, and you’ll find yourself among a plethora of fruit trees.

This orchard, housing fifty trees that bear apples, quinces, plums, pears, cherries, and crab apples, is nestled right within the St George’s estate.

Planted in 2013 by the organization Trees for Cities, it has become a cornerstone of the community.

Jim Ford, a resident of a nearby tower block, recalls witnessing the trees being planted. Before long, he took on the responsibility of watering them and became one of the few individuals dedicated to caring for these orchards.

“It’s quite popular, especially when the fruit is ripe – it becomes even more sought after,” he shared.

“Though we don’t get to enjoy much of the fruit ourselves, we cherish the open, communal space it provides. Visitors from outside often take some fruit when they spot it. That’s perfectly okay; it’s meant to be enjoyed.”

“The trees offer a cooling effect. Stroll through this area and you’ll feel a noticeable drop in temperature compared to Cable Street or the Highway. You could easily forget you’re in the middle of the city.”

London’s rising temperatures and the shade from its trees contribute to a cooler environment, even as heatwaves pose challenges to native species.

Harrow Council has issued a warning against gathering under large trees due to an increase in falling branches and has noted a rise in Sudden Branch Drop Syndrome, exacerbated by rising temperatures.

Experts at Trees for Cities anticipate that, as the climate continues to warm, there will be a higher incidence of trees dying or dropping branches.

Mayor Sadiq Khan aims to expand London’s tree canopy by 10% by the year 2050.

This orchard initiative is regarded as a model, inspiring similar projects in other estates.

Emma Peet from Trees for Cities emphasized the significance of tree planting in inner London.

“While London boasts eight million trees, they are not evenly spread throughout the city,” she stated.

“Currently, Tower Hamlets has a canopy coverage of only about 8 to 10%, but thanks to this orchard, it has increased to 19%.”

“Enhancing urban forests to be more equitable and accessible for communities is a crucial goal.”

She continued, “Urban forests provide numerous advantages, such as shade on hot days, support for biodiversity, and a cleaner atmosphere. They also serve as vital communal spaces.”