Newtown Green Group recognised for a decade of environmental impact
A dedicated volunteer group that has transformed a neglected green space into a thriving community and wildlife haven has been named winner of our Green Impact Award for 2026.
The Newtown Green Group, based in Worcester, received the award in recognition of its outstanding contribution to protecting and enhancing the local environment while bringing people together through a wide range of community activities.
Sponsored by Broad Oak Group, the Green Impact Award celebrates individuals and organisations that are making a lasting difference through environmental action, sustainability and community led green initiatives.
This year marks the group’s tenth anniversary, a milestone that reflects a decade of dedication from volunteers who have worked tirelessly to improve Newtown Green, a valued green space at the heart of the local community.
Since forming in 2015, the group has transformed the site from an overgrown and underused area into a vibrant community asset featuring wildlife habitats, accessible pathways and a flourishing community orchard known as ‘Trev’s Orchard’, named in memory of founding volunteer Trevor Hughes, whose passion and vision helped shape the project.
Alongside environmental improvements, the group organises litter picks, health walks and a packed programme of community events including Bands in the Park, Easter activities, Halloween celebrations, Christmas events and family friendly activities throughout the year.
Jen Moreton, a Newtown Green Group volunteer said: “We’re absolutely delighted and genuinely surprised to receive this award. Everything we’ve achieved over the past ten years has been down to the dedication of our volunteers and the support of the wider community.
“What started as a group of people wanting to improve a neglected green space has grown into something that benefits both people and wildlife. We’ve created new habitats, planted an orchard, improved access and brought people together through events and activities. It’s wonderful to see so many people enjoying the green today and to know that we’ve played a part in that.”
The award was presented by our Interim Chief Executive, Kevin Bolt.
Kevin said: “The Newtown Green Group is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision for their community.
“Their work delivers environmental benefits, supports biodiversity, creates opportunities for people to connect with nature and brings the local community together. While sustainability is often associated with large scale projects, groups like this demonstrate the enormous impact that grassroots action can have.
“The volunteers have transformed Newtown Green into a place that is valued by residents, visitors and wildlife alike. They are incredibly worthy winners of this year’s Green Impact Award.”
Over the past decade, the group has become a driving force for environmental improvement in the area, helping to create a greener, cleaner and more welcoming neighbourhood while inspiring others to get involved in protecting local green spaces.
Chris Chapman, Strategic Accounts Director from sponsors Broad Oak Group said: “We’re proud to support the Green Impact Award and celebrate the individuals driving meaningful change across sustainability, innovation and decarbonisation. Recognising those who are leading greener thinking, challenging the norm and creating lasting environmental impact is vital to building a more sustainable future.
“The Newtown Green Group has demonstrated exactly what can be achieved through commitment, collaboration and community action. Their work is creating a lasting legacy for both people and the environment.”
The Community Heroes Awards celebrate the individuals, groups and organisations that make our communities stronger, greener and more connected places to live. Ten years on from its formation, Newtown Green Group continues to demonstrate how local action can create lasting environmental and social impact, ensuring the green remains a treasured asset for future generations.
Broad Oak Group is a family run contractor delivering large scale retrofit, planned maintenance and building improvement solutions across the UK; the company specialises in energy efficiency improvements, decarbonisation and resident focused delivery, helping create healthier homes and more sustainable communities.
Photo caption : Interim Group Chief Executive Kevin Bolt, left, presenting the award to members of the Newtown Green Group