A community orchard is likely to take the place of disused allotments in Penhill.

Swindon councillors on the community, culture and recreation commission have approved plans to use the allotments in Leigh Road for the project.

The plan will need the official go ahead from the council's Cabinet, but the mood is optimistic.

Teresa Page (Lab, St Philip) said members of the community would be able to take an active role in the day to day running of the orchard.

The project will be run on a long-term lease on the proviso that the orchard is maintained. If it is found to be neglected, Swindon council will resume control of the site.

Maureen Dilley, lead member for Swindon Services, said the site, which covers an area of 6,800 metres square, would mainly consist of fruit trees.

"This is not just a one person project but something that everyone can get involved in," she said.

"It will be great for anyone who has an interest in horticulture. They will be responsible for tending it and maintaining the trees and plants. It will be run on a voluntary basis for adults but with a view for children to become involved as well."

The allotments, next to Uplands School, have been vacant for several years despite attempts to promote the site.

This has been blamed on its isolated location to the north of Penhill Recreation Ground, and to repeated acts of vandalism.

But councillors say a group of locals, interested in saving the site from further decline, have shown considerable interest in establishing a village project.

The community orchard project would fit in with existing initiatives such as the Food Poverty Healthy Food Forum, which is a pilot project in Penhill to promote healthy eating.

The aim of the project is to retain the important area of open space, promote the education and awareness of growing fresh fruit and vegetables and to encourage the active involvement of the community.