Brimscombe Mill to be sold and race to save services at site

After moving into the site at Brimscombe Mill in 2021, the social enterprises which are part of the Grace Network such as the Long Table, Kids Stuff, Furniture Bank and the Bike Drop, now have to look for another home after it emerged this week that the site is set to be sold.

These social enterprises, which were also moved out of their base at Brimscombe Port just over two years ago due to its redevelopment by Stroud District Council, now have until August when their lease expires to find a new location, prompting fears for their future.

A statement released this week from Brimscombe Mill said: "This space is more than a venue, it embodies our commitment to this community.

"This is a shock to us all. We are now exploring other options for a home but we haven't found anything viable yet.

"This puts all of the social enterprises and 53 jobs at risk.

"This isn't the first time we've faced adversity as a community, and we'll pull through it together.”

Since the news broke the Stroud community has rallied round to support the enterprises amid their uncertain future.

Jo Mansell, from the Grace Network, said: "All of the staff and social enterprises have been amazed by the level of support from our local community and want to thank everyone for their love.

"We are so thankful."

A spokesperson for the Long Table added: "We have been blown away by the communities outpouring of love and support for us and our sister organisations at Brimscombe Mill."

The Long Table will host band The Achievers this weekend with a spokesperson adding: "We want every event to be a special one while we’re still here, so join us for a meal, conversation, dance and show us your community resilience."

MP Siobhan Baillie said: "I was straight on the phone as soon as I heard the news and met with them on Friday.

"The one thing that I want to reassure everybody is that these are some of the most innovative and nimble businesses I work with.

"The ideas to support challenging or moving and considering sites is already in full flow as the shock turns into action.

"I will do whatever it takes behind the scenes or publicly to help sort this out as the jobs and work with local families is too important. “

Beki Aldam, Green district councillor for Brimscombe & Thrupp, said: “This isn't just a building but a community, used and beloved by everyone around here.

"We are hoping for a positive outcome and are working closely with the team to find out what they need from us.

Dr Simon Opher, Labour's parliamentary candidate for Stroud, said: "I was genuinely shocked to hear the devastating news about the sale of the site.

"53 jobs in these important social enterprises, and the communities they have built and support are now at risk.

"The work the team does is an inspiration, and the support they offer to local people through their pay what you can model is invaluable.

"When I was running the Covid clinic early in 2020, they bought us food parcels and stocked our freezer, saying they were 'just looking after us.'

"In addition to my own experience, I know of many people, in schools, community services, and the public who have been touched by what they do.

"The Grace Network needs our help, as many have needed theirs in the past."

There will be a public meeting between 6pm until 8pm on Thursday, March 21 at Brimscombe Mill to discuss the future of these enterprises further.