Cash boost secures learning centre’s future

A Gloucestershire outdoor learning centre is set to thrive again.

The Wilderness Centre, near Mitcheldean, has returned to community ownership after a successful fundraising campaign. 

Originally a council-owned community asset from 1969, The Wilderness Centre closed in 2014 due to financial pressures. 

The new funding and ownership structure aim to secure the facility’s future, allowing it to continue inspiring young people and offering the wider community the chance to engage with nature in an educational and adventurous setting.

Long known for hosting school residential visits, the centre will now welcome local residents more broadly, offering bushcraft, orienteering, canoeing and high ropes.

Community-owned business Wylderne completed the purchase, backed by an £822,000 investment from Resonance Community Developers Fund.

Wylderne is also inviting local residents and nature enthusiasts to invest in shares to raise an additional £50,000. 

Combined with grants and other contributions, the total investment will surpass £1 million.

Simon Dawson, director at Wylderne, said: “The significant Resonance investment will help the Wilderness Centre to evolve into a place where people can enjoy contact with nature and learn how they might help the unique biodiversity of the Forest to thrive.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming back not only our local schools but, for the first time ever, everyone from our community.”

Tom Crook, investment manager at Resonance, added: “We’re delighted to invest in the Wilderness Centre, initially protecting its future and then becoming part of its journey towards creating a first-class outdoor location for the whole community to enjoy.

“Resonance Community Developers was designed to support communities to create and own assets that meet local needs and help to build community cohesion – protecting and helping The Wilderness Centre to grow is a perfect example of this in action.

“To date, the fund has invested over £32 million and that has been spent on affordable homes, sports and leisure facilities, low-carbon and renewable energy generation and vital community assets.”

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