Momentum Builds: A Summer of Support and Progress

Since we launched the Building Freedom project in June, the Building Steering Group has been working behind the scenes to maintain momentum.

We've had many encouraging conversations with the church community about their ideas, and generous offers of support - thank you! Your input is both valued and appreciated.

The team received a lot of positive support and encouragement from members of the public at the Mayor's Picnic, and it was great to be out and about in the community, talking to people about the project and the positive impact we hope to make on the town.

Just as a reminder, the Building Steering Group includes:

Pete Heslop, Dick Ord, Sarah Clare, Chris Honor, Neil Kirkland, and Sim Dendy, with Bryony Light (Communications) and Luke Maundrell (Fundraising) also involved.

Fundraising

Having already purchased the land outright, fundraising within our church community was kicked off last month at a special ‘Vision Service’ where we raised an unprecedented offering in pledges and donations, the biggest we have ever taken.

The fundraising team are working on other ways to bring in funds from external sources, including Trusts and Foundations, other donors and pots of money that have the propensity and potential to give to a project like ours. There is quite a bit of work involved in some of these elements, including researching and connecting the opportunities - do let us know if you would like to get involved in supporting the team with some of this work.

Construction

As of last week, we've officially begun Phase Three of the project. This phase aims to satisfy the planning conditions required before construction can begin on site.

Test Valley Borough Council's planning approval includes 26 conditions, and a number of these must be signed off before any building work can commence.

Phase Three next steps:

1. A full archaeological survey

2. An updated ecological survey

3. Preparation of Construction, Traffic, and Demolition Management Plans

4. Engagement with SSE and Southern Water for incoming utilities

5. Full technical designs for the new site entrance

Once these documents have been submitted and approved by TVBC, we'll be in a position to begin construction on site.

Phase Four

Looking ahead, Phase Four is likely to focus on constructing the new entrance to the land and making the required adjustments to the road and pavements. This is a logical next step; not only does it allow safe access to the site, but it will also bring a visible and tangible improvement to the land.

How you can help in August

1 - We're looking to bolster the communications and fundraising team. If you have experience in either of these areas, please let us know.

2 - Please do pray for wisdom and guidance as we start to appoint contractors

3 - Chat to us! If you have any questions, concerns or ideas about the project, we welcome your feedback (or an open dialogue). Please contact myself or Sim.

Thank you again for your continued support and prayers. We're excited to take these next steps together.