Read a report of the build June 2021 - March 2023 HERE
The Cabin
We really are nearly there!
It has been part of the vision for the wood from the outset to build an off-grid, sustainable, classroom, field-study base, community and volunteer room, one that is sensitive to its surroundings and sits well in the landscape.
The portable cabin and shipping container were the beginnings… Planning permission was approved (an outline plan can be found in the photo gallery), skilled crafters and builders appointed and, thanks to the generosity of our supporters we raised the funds needed to complete the basic structure.
Escalating costs, however, meant that funds were really stretched… and by late winter/ early 2023, they’d run out! Building recommenced on the internal fit out in late July 2023 and, although there are a few elements that need completing (‘shutterbridges’, rodent-proof netting around the base of the frame, kitchen completion and a bit more storage) the building has been operational since January this year (2024)! Huge thanks and congratulations to everybody who has worked so hard over the past 7 years to get this amazing project to this point.
The icing on the cake was when the Cabin was awarded CPRE Hampshire’s Sustainable Communities Award 2023, a very proud moment. CPRE created a wonderful video about the background to the build and its sustainability credentials, which you can see here
There are now 2 more stages that we need to start work on:
- extending the solar array and increasing battery capacity
- landscaping and security fencing… beautiful though the Cabin is, we are very aware that it’s a muddy business actually getting in and the aging heras fencing is a bit of an eyesore!
Donations are therefore still needed which can be made through our Global Giving project page (BLUE BUTTON ON THE RIGHT… KEEP SCROLLING IF YOU’RE ON YOUR PHONE.)
Updates
Blog updates
News updates
The cabin’s arrival to the Harmony Woods site.
Thanks to Taylor Wimpey, a site office joined the tool store shipping container in 2017
For the first time, the winter planting is made comfortable for volunteers
Plans to convert the steel containers were passed in 2019
February 2021 - Trees for the timber for the build were felled on The Middleton Estate, Harewood Forest
Just a few miles from Harmony Woods, the timber has been very locally sourced.
Each number relates to the cutting list for the various posts, beams, rafters and braces
Ben, Andrew and Shane completed a sponsored walk of the 44-mile Test Way, joined for part of the way by by Trustee Liz and fellow volunteer Annette
Fundraising target - phase 3 Internal Fit-out
We needed to raise a further £25,000 and, with your help, WE DIDI IT! £25,000.
The button below takes you to our Global Giving project page.
Can you support us to extend the solar array and complete the landscaping, outside tool area and security fencing?