Cornwall-based community interest company Urban Biodiversity has appointed a new chief executive. Charlotte Hill will take over the top job running green community project Newquay Orchard from founders Luke and Amelia Berkeley.
Newquay Orchard is a seven-acre community space in the centre of Newquay, created and cared for by over 600 volunteers. Established in 2015, the community asset provides environmental education, mental health services, community events, office space and employability training.
Ms Hill has more than three decades of experience in community economic development working within district and unitary councils.
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She co-founded the School for Social Entrepreneurs Cornwall CIC and has held director roles for organisations such as Cornwall Rural Housing Association and Active Plus CIC.
Her vision for the project includes building upon the foundation laid by her predecessors, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and community impact.
She said: “It’s a huge privilege to step into this role, following in the giant footsteps of Luke and Amelia Berkeley who’ve realised their dream of a community orchard here in Newquay.
"It has never been more important to connect nature, health and social prescription alongside providing pathways for education and wellbeing. This is why Newquay Orchard exists. Our ambitions burn brighter than ever before, built by the community, for the community.”
Mr Berkeley added: “We leave the Orchard in the strongest position it’s ever been in, with such an exciting future ahead with the amazing Charlotte Hill at the helm.”
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Gordon Seabright, non-executive director of Newquay Orchard, said there was "nobody better qualified" to build on Mr and Mrs Berkeley's work.
“Charlotte is already a much loved and valued member of the Orchard team," he said. "She has a wealth of experience through senior roles in Cornwall, and shares the passion we all feel for the social, educational and environmental work that is having such an impact on the wellbeing of Newquay and its community.”