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Gloucestershire Business News

EXCLUSIVE: a wand-erful idea for village's social space

A dream to create an outdoor community space at a former primary school in the Cotswolds is rapidly moving towards reality after its funding target broke the 80% barrier thanks to Stroud District Council and central government cash backing the scheme.

Villagers in Stinchcombe, a small village of some 500 residents between Dursley and Wotton-under-Edge, received an initial bump-start of £8,819 for their £32,000 goal through the government's Build Back Better funding scheme, while SDC put a further £5,000 in.

Local firms, including Renishaw PLC, also stepped up in recent months to help push the project towards the finish line.

Modelmaker and designer John Pinch, who lives in the village and formerly taught at Katharine Lady Berkeley's School, conceived the idea for Stinchcombe Playground and Community Space after he was commissioned to create Leaf and Ground, the widely praised café, deli, garden centre and recreation venue on the edge of Dursley.

John told Punchline-Gloucester.com: "The villagers have done so much to help make our dream become a reality and it has been really inspiring – not least to see an eight year-old stepping up to the challenge. 

"As the son of the local blacksmith, Seb has taken up the challenge of crafting decorative steel coat hooks and Harry Potter wands (fire pokers) to sell, with all proceeds going towards the project."

With no shop, school, or pub, the village currently lacks any central outside meeting place or a safe area for children to play, but a lease on the redundant site offered a chance to create a space that was inclusive and welcoming for all ages, he said.

"By offering a safe, enjoyable space for socializing, the initiative aims to reduce isolation, enhance mental wellbeing, and foster a greater sense of togetherness."

However, there is still work to be done, and the community is appealing for additional donations to help reach the fundraising target.

John added: "Every contribution brings Stinchcombe closer to realising its vision of a more connected and thriving village".

● To see progress on the scheme and support it, go to this link.

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