The Society

About The Society

We are a local organisation, with Cricklade High Street at its heart. Our aim is to ensure that our High Street survives and continues to be the centre of our community – read about what we do below and give us your support!

Who We Are

We are a group of six local people who love our town. We got together because we were all becoming concerned about the future of our High Street. 

Over recent years, we have seen increasing erosion as High Street businesses are lost to residential property conversions. If this trend continues, it will have a detrimental impact on Cricklade and the community it serves. 

What can we do to ensure the High Street remains vibrant – not just for the here and now, but for generations to come?  

Our response was to form the not-for-profit Cricklade Development Foundation Limited (a Community Benefit Society).

Run by its members for the benefit of the community, and governed by the Financial Conduct Authority, anyone can join us. With your support, the original 6 members can become hundreds and possibly many more – perhaps grow into the thousands.

The more members we have, the stronger we become and the more we can achieve. The Town of Cricklade is a great community with the High Street at its heart – and we want to keep it that way.

What We Do

With your help, the Society intends to buy key commercial High Street properties which come up for sale to ensure they are retained for the benefit of the community. We know that once these properties are lost to residential use, they will be lost forever.

Depending on the type of property bought, we wish to encourage businesses to set up in Cricklade, perhaps to fill a gap in provision, and to develop upper floor accommodation to meet the need for smaller homes for those connected with Cricklade – all at affordable rents. Making space available for community use will also be a priority. It is envisaged that the rental income will cover the costs of purchasing and maintaining the property and be self-sustaining. 

Most importantly, the projects will be tailored to meet the needs of the community and the properties bought are protected by an asset lock.

The Society

Explore The Society

Our History

The Society was formed in 2018 and has been active in protecting the vitality and longer-term viability of Cricklade High Street. Find out more about our history and future plans.

Our Team

The Society is run by an experienced team of local people who care passionately about the community and our High Street. Find out more about our team and their experience.

Our Objectives

The Society aims to enhance the community of Cricklade by championing our High Street and supporting new development opportunities that benefit local people, places and businesses.

Our Work

The Society focuses much of its work on championing and supporting Cricklade High Street. Find out more about our work and our vision for the High Street.

Governance & AGM

The Society is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority and is owned by its members. Society Rules, minutes and other important information are available to download.

Membership

Your membership demonstrates a commitment to the community and our High Street. Becoming a member also gives you a say in the running of The Society and a vote at our AGM.