Brimscombe Mill and Long Table update as Justin Welby to appear

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, are looking for another home after it emerged in March that the site was 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, have until August when their lease expires to find a new location. 

Members from the organisation say they have been 'overwhelmed' with support since the news emerged and, to thank everyone for their this there will be a party at the mill on Friday with special guest the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. 

A spokesperson for the Long Table has also said that their plan A is still to remain at the Brimscombe Mill site, although they are also looking at alternative venues for when their lease expires. 

They said: "Thank you for supporting us since the news broke that we must vacate our beloved home . 

"This was a challenging update to share, and we’ve been busily working behind the scenes ever since. 

"The community response has been overwhelming, affirming the impact and importance of our work.

"We don’t have any firm news to share yet, but we wanted to let you know that we are still working hard on finding a solution.

"Plan A is still to stay at The Mill and we are in negotiations with all parties involved and looking at all options to stay.

"Meanwhile, we are also looking at all other alternative options.

"We will update everyone with more details as soon as we can, but we wanted to keep you all updated as much as we can and to let you know how much we appreciate all your support.

"Despite this challenge, our resolve is stronger than ever to serve our community.

"We are not shutting down and we believe that together we can navigate this situation and will emerge even stronger wherever our home is.

"Meanwhile, thanks to your help, it’s full steam ahead with project #FillTheMill.

"We have loved seeing so many of you down at the Mill in the recent weeks and now that the sun is out, we hope to see more of you.

"There are so many ways for you to help with project #FillTheMill; come eat at Long Table, shop at Kids Stuff, Furniture Bank and Bike Drop, come along to events hosted at the Mill, sit by our glade with a coffee or donate to Furniture Bank, Bike Drop and Kids Stuff.

"We are in urgent need of furniture and bicycle donations to meet rising demands.

"To say thanks for all your support, we are throwing a thank you party on Friday, May 24 .

"The whole site will be open with live music, activities and great food - plus the Archbishop of Canterbury is popping down for an after-dinner conversation about radical hospitality!

"Your contributions are more than just items - they are active support for our community.

"Your participation helps us all help each other - thank you all from the bottom of all our hearts."