Providing encouragement for the organisers and sending some scuttling inside to fetch extra chairs, over 100 project supporters were welcomed on Tuesday evening by Michael. Kim, the current mill owner voiced his excitement about the plans and provided some historical background.

Abounding enthusiasm

Michael summed up the vision in 2 words : Community business, explaining that business is initially focussed on the café and shop, employing people and generating profit, potentially moving on to hydro power, co-working space, artisan workshops and adopting more ideas from the local community. The community element has at the moment the local environment (flood prevention, habitat restoration) in its sights, looking also to the school and local enterprise.

How this will be achieved was briefly presented by Steve indicating the need to write the business plan and complete the CBS registration in order to secure funding from various realistic sources.

Flowing creativity

James led everyone into discussion in small groups, focussing attention on 4 questions: what is most important? who should benefit? what’s missing? and what’s your greatest concern? The following flow of creativity was phenomenal. Several original and important points were brought up as well as suggestions which have the potential of creating a real community hub – many requiring little or no extra financial support, some which would need a feasibility study prior to implementation. Fortunately the groups were diligent in note-taking and we will be sharing a full digest of the ideas on this page shortly.

The meeting ended just about on time with Michael indicating next steps with an invitation to get involved, help spread the word, and submit further ideas and/or opinions and feedback. Currently there are 737 supporters and 375 completed questionnaires.

Our priorities now are to create a detailed business plan and financial forecast, and to register as a Community Benefit Society.