News: March '21

 

For several years Beenham Investment Group (BIG) directors have been considering if the long term management of Greyfield Wood would be better served by a different type of organisation, given our clear commitment to managing the woods as a community asset.

On 23rd September 2020 Greyfield Wood Community Interest Company (the CIC) was incorporated at Companies House.

We then set about forming a board of directors (three of which are also directors of BIG) to get the CIC up and running.

Meanwhile the directors of BIG asked its shareholders for agreement to allow the transfer of the lease to the CIC, once the CIC was able to settle BIG's outstanding liabilities. BIG shareholders voted overwhelmingly in favour of the transfer of the lease in January 2021 and BIG have brought back over 60% of the original shares issued 25 years ago at the original price of £1 per share.

We knew there would be a shortfall in available cash and therefore launched a fund-raising  appeal, via The Good Exchange, which Greenham Trust have been Match Funding. We have been very fortunate to receive donations from some local companies and Englefield Charitable Trust as well as our own Parish Council. We are now close to securing the necessary funds to reimburse the remaining shareholders.

Next, we would like to recruit local residents as members of the CIC and would encourage you to join us and show your support. The current directors have a broad range of skills and knowledge as well as a Woodland Management Plan approved by the Forestry Commission and will continue to work towards our long term goal of managing Greyfield Wood as a safe haven for wildlife and natural flora and fauna for the enjoyment of all.

BIG have run a successful volunteer program over the past several years and the CIC intend to continue this activity as it brings a significant contribution to the management of Greyfield Wood.

We plan for the lease to be transferred to the CIC by late summer, by which time we hope many people from Beenham are able to show their support by becoming members. Please use this link to join us and show your support to your local amenity.