We would like to see the area of green fields managed by the local community for the benefit fo the local community.  This is how it could work:

The green fields are donated by Imerys to the local community who will establish a Community Interest Company to manage the site. Volunteers from the local community will manage the company with the aim of engaging others in the community to become involved in the proposed schemes. For example:-

Natural habitats will be managed by volunteers with advice from organisations like the Cornwall Wildlife Trust and BTCV. This will include undertaking biodiversity surveys and monitoring species found. Ponds could be created to help enhance wildlife found in the area and assist with drainage. 

The community compost scheme will be managed by volunteers working closely with the local authority and the Environment Agency to demonstrate environmental best practice by collecting and recycling green waste as close to source as possible.

Develop links with the local primary schools in Roche and Bugle to engage local school children

Local residents (existing and new) will be rented allotments for growing fruit and vegetables.

The provision of a community building by Imerys could help support these proposals by offering facilities to support the composting, education and gardening activities, including secure storage, office space, changing rooms and a class room. children (and their parents) in the allotments, habitat management and community composting proposals.

 

An undercover (possibly open sided) area could also be provided for a farmers market where local farmers, food producers and keen allotment tenants can sell their wares to the local community. An existing traditional stone barn in the area could be converted to help provide some of these facilities.

 

The provision of paths through the green spaces and interpretation boards would help encourage local residents to walk to the market, rather than drive, helping to increase the environmental benefits of this initiative.

The market stalls, allotment tenancies, and fishing licences would all help generate income for the Community Interest Company to make the project sustainable.

To see how Imerys revised their original plans click here