News / Society
‘Help us support our Long Ashton Legion’
Long Ashton Royal British Region Club has learned that their building is at risk of being sold to developers.
The building, dating from 1878, has long been a community asset. The Royal British Region has a number of outreach centers across the UK, including Long Ashton, that serve as help and support hubs for veterans and their families, as well as raising money for this renowned and long-standing charity.
Long Ashton locals also emphasize the importance of keeping a building of such historic value standing that has become part of the identity of this town and shouldn’t be erased. Those behind the project wish to preserve its architectural features above all else and keep the Club as a place that belongs to and acts as a meeting point for the whole community, as it has been for over 100 years.
In opposition to development plans, the people of Long Ashton have launched a campaign with the support of the Parish Council to allow the towns-people to buy the building themselves, keep it protected and plan how it can best be used as a public building for residents to enjoy.
The campaign pledges to “create a sustainable long term business plan to enable the community to make a successful bid to purchase and modernise the Royal Legion as a place for social, business and entertainment for all”. Current ideas include using the Legion building as a coffee shop or communal meeting points for residents.
So far this initiative is running very successfully for those behind it, with the fundraising target of £700,000 coming close to achievement. The feel in the community is quietly optimistic. However, additional help – both financially, and from those able to offer expertise on loan agreements, dealing with developers and publicity – are crucial to ensuring that this building is saved.
Only then will this club be able to continue their vitally important work, to “support the veterans who use the building, provide for families and look to support the youth of the future”.
Support this campaign and help spread the word: https://www.spacehive.com/buy-our-legion#/idea
is needed now More than ever
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