On the 23^rd June Biblins youth campsite, now run by the young people’s charity, Woodcraft Folk, Is launching a crowd funding campaign to help repair and develop the site infrastructure. The youth campsite nestled in the wye valley, downstream of Symonds yat is owned by Forestry England and has been a designated youth facility for over 50 years. Last year saw 5000 young people from 200 different organisations, both local and from further afield enjoying adventures in the back to basics campsite. Woodcraft Folk wish to raise funds that will help safeguard the site and facilities for future generations.

Since taking over the management of the site in 2018 Woodcraft Folk have been working with volunteers to make improvements to refresh the site as there has been little investment for a number of years. In addition to renewed signage and general maintenance this season saw the opening of Camp Koodoo, a semi-permanent camping facility aimed at offering camping to a wider variety of groups.

Through crowd funding Woodcraft Folk aim to raise development funds for a feasibility study, architectural designs, site surveys and planning applications. The proposed developments include an updated solar power system, improved washing up facilities, a permanent group shelter and to renew the Bunkhouse.

The Bunkhouse was originally built in the 1950s with help from local schools, Scouts and Youth groups and has had very few changes since. The building now doesn’t reach current Health and Safety Standards and in 2016 was deemed no longer fit for groups of young people to sleep in. The site relies on solar electricity as there is no mains power, this is seen as an opportunity to develop facilities that are both environmentally sustainable and add to the educational benefits for young people.

Mike Lawrence, Biblins Project Manager said “We wish update and develop the site whilst maintaining the campsite’s back to basics feel, We plan to develop the site in a way that will enhance the enjoyment and the overall experience for young people for years to come. We hope to re-develop the Bunkhouse to offer year round accommodation and create a first class educational facility. This campaign is the first step towards raising the necessary funds to make this a reality”

If you wish to support the development of Biblins Youth Campsite you can donate via the Just Giving Page:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/biblinsyouthcampsite

The target for this campaign is: £25,000

Launch date: 23^rd June 2019

Close date: 9^th August 2019