How thE LOCAL community came to own the Heavens valley

Here are the steps we took.

  • A group of neighbours and local people heard a rumour that Thrupp Farm (known as the Weyhouse or the Heavens Valley) was to be put up for sale.

  • We joined together and formed an Action Group to see if we could buy the land.

  • We first registered as a Community Benefit Society which meant we were able to purchase the Heavens Valley and manage it on behalf of the community. You can find out more about a CCBS here.

  • Our registration number is 9302
    Registration date: 22 May 2024
    Address: The Exchange, Brick Row, Stroud, Glos GL5 1DF

  • You can find full details of our registration here

  • We then applied for and were granted charitable status and our charity reference number is ZD33498. As a charitable CBS we are an ‘exempt charity’ (for tax purposes).

  • The Charitable CBS is required by law to manage the Heavens Valley in pursuit of its stated objectives: which will be focused on maintaining public access as well as promoting biodiversity and nature recovery on the site. It is not possible for the CCBS to sell the Heavens Valley in future, except to another charitable organisation. This guarantees long-term protection of the Heavens Valley.

  • Anyone can buy a share. All shareholders can vote at AGMs and have a say in appointing Directors. Shareholders are limited to one vote, to prevent any single individual or group gaining control over decisions about the Heavens Valley. The shares are valued at £50 and we have various options with a strong focus on inclusivity and ensuring community members on lower incomes are not excluded from participating.

  • We secured bridging loans from two generous local individuals and purchased the land in November 2024.

  • We are committed to extensive engagement with the community on the future management of the Heavens Valley, including with those unable to make a financial contribution. A generous grant from the Summerfield Charitable Trust enabled us to employ a Community Engagement Co-ordinator.

  • We are developing a full land management plan taking into account the findings of our Community Engagement programme. Again, thanks to the Summerfield Charitable Trust we employed a Land and Volunteer Ranger.