The Mary Webb Society has pledged a donation to support this very worthy cause.
Leasowes Meadows – Urgent Appeal to buy land in Church Stretton for future generations and for wildlife – can you help?
We have heard from Peter and Sandra Whitlock that £320,00 has already been pledged and they are optimistic that they will have enough pledges to bid for the field. Time is running out now so pledges need to be received by tomorrow 12th October
Please read on for more information and think about making a pledge. Many thanks
Local residents in Church Stretton have recently found out that three fields adjacent to Coppice Leasowes Nature Reserve are being offered for sale. A bid must be submitted on October 12th. The Middle Marches Community Land Trust, together with local community members, have started a campaign to raise the money to purchase these fields for local people and for wildlife. Please read on and help if you feel able to.
Best wishes
The Stepping Stones team
About the site
These fields are an amenity for the people of Church Stretton who use them for exercise and to walk towards Helmeth Hill or Caradoc. They also link into the existing network for nature in and around the town, being adjacent to the woodland of Coppice Leasowes. At present the grassland is moderately species-rich, with great prospects for managing as a hay meadow with some areas given over to scrub/woodland and tree planting. At a time when our wildlife has never been more threatened by climate change and development, this area could be managed as a ‘stepping stone’ for nature, which would increase the habitat for birds and butterflies and reduce the risks faced by isolated wildlife populations.
Can you make a donation?
Please respond quickly as we have only a short time to raise the money. One major donor has already pledged support but much more is needed. Despite the guide price being £280,000 it is anticipated that offers will need to be in excess of £400,000. If this appeal is successful, the land will be purchased through the Middle Marches Community Land Trust (MMCLT), who also own Cudwell Meadow and part of Norbury Hill.
Make a pledge
FAQs
Who is organising this?
Sandra and Peter Whitlock, residents of Church Stretton, who help manage and conserve Cudwell Meadow, in conjunction with MMCLT. The Town Council, the Mayor and the National Trust have all been advised and are supportive.
Who are the Middle Marches Community Land Trust (MMCLT)?
The Trust is a registered charity and is able to claim Gift Aid.
When will I have to pay the money I pledge?
If the bid is successful, MMCLT will ask you to make your payment within FOUR WEEKS (by 10th November).
Can I change my mind after I pledge?
Yes, you can.
What if the bid is unsuccessful?
You will not be asked for any money.
Who will manage the land?
A committee will be formed, chaired by Middle Marches Community Land Trust and including Sandra and Peter Whitlock, other stakeholders who express an interest and others with meadow management experience. The Stepping Stones Project will help with some of the practical activities.
What happens if more money is pledged than is needed?
MMCLT will only take money for the purchase costs, legal fees, fund-raising costs & any work that might be needed immediately. If more should be pledged than is needed, MMCLT will only ask donors for a reduced pro-rata amount.
Is my information secure and private?
All information will be kept securely, will not be shared with others and will not be used for any other purpose.
Any further queries?
Please call Sandra Whitlock on 07810 521559
Make a pledge
Our mailing address is:
National Trust
Chalet Pavilion
Carding Mill Valley
Church Stretton, Shropshire SY6 6JG
United Kingdom
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
