Wylderne is excited to acquire the Wilderness, protecting it for future generations and returning it to community ownership. After many years of uncertainty, its future is finally secured.
It will belong to the Forest.
We have many exciting plans and ideas to breathe life back into this historic jewel in the heart of the Forest.
But we need your help and support to bring our vision to life.
To maintain the Wilderness’ safety and operational standards, we urgently need money for maintenance and repairs to the buildings and in the grounds. This is imperative to the ongoing running of the outdoor education centre and programmes.
We are looking to raise a minimum of £50,000 through our share offer.
Our aim is to raise £150,000, which will mean we are able to carry out more extensive repairs and improvements. This investment will realise the potential the Wilderness has always had: to be a nature connection and learning centre for the whole community, not only schools.
Due to the uncertainty of the future of The Wilderness Centre over the past two years, income has understandably been negatively impacted, and the buildings, grounds and equipment have not had the investment they require, which is why community investment through the community share offer is so vitally important. Creating a new community asset based on the current usage, with growth and generative opportunities, will provide long-term stability for the community, preserving natural spaces and community access.
The Share Offer launch
The launch of our community share offer is scheduled for 18th June 2025. Through the purchase of shares, each shareholder will be providing essential funds to support the continuation of the operation of this valuable community asset, be entitled to vote on the future direction of the Wilderness, and, in time, see a return on their investment.
The Share Offer
In support of our efforts to buy the Wilderness Centre, we will be running a community share offer from 18th June to 25th July 2025. This share offer will aim to raise £150,000 of share equity.
Targets
Optimum target: £150,000
Minimum target: £50,000
Maximum target: £250,000
Share Offer Structure
Share Value: £1
Minimum Shareholding: £50 (50 shares)
Maximum Shareholding: £15,000
The share offer will open on 18th June 2025, and we will post an online share application form here shortly. In the meantime, if you’d like any more information on how you can apply for shares, or if you’d like to register your interest in applying, or for details on upcoming events, including our three open days at the Wilderness, please fill in the contact form here.
Our 3 aims for the next 3 years
Breathe new life into The Wilderness and improve the Wilderness Centre as a place to learn and be inspired: by enhancing site accessibility, classroom and outdoor learning spaces, and the quality of accommodation, enabling the Centre to host diverse groups on site concurrently, while continuing and expanding the wilding programme of meadows and woodland.
Develop and expand the schools and youth business by leveraging the existing customer base from the Forest of Dean and Gloucestershire to deliver high-quality, cutting-edge, and inclusive nature-based learning and personal development for children and young people from diverse backgrounds.
Build the Forest of Dean Bioregioning Centre proposition and business: by playing a leading role in the collaborative efforts of the District Council, local community, businesses, and environmental groups to realise the Forest of Dean’s potential as a sustainable place to live and work, creating a model for the wider region.
