Following an initial grant of £15,000 from the Community Capacity Fund, Upcycle Kernow CIC has been awarded further funding from the Good Growth Rural Prosperity Fund to take the project to the next phase.
This next round of funding will enable them to upcycle and retrofit their building, creating a warm inviting space that is accessible to all. Design work and surveys have already been completed, with building work due to begin at the end of summer 2024, and a target completion date of March 2025.
Upcycle Kernow CIC aim to achieve several significant goals from this project:
- Upcycle the existing building, which was originally a 1941 RAF support facility, into a light-filled, eco-friendly and efficient community space. This space will house various activities and facilities, including a wheelchair-accessible workshop space, a kitchen, toilets and rear fire escape. The goal is to transform the building to meet modern standards, replace the asbestos roof, and make the workshop accessible to differently-abled people.
- They plan to implement an economical heating system and improve insulation to make the building more energy-efficient. This aligns with Cornwall Council’s Net Zero plan, contributing to reducing fuel consumption and costs.
- Serving as a community hub, Upcycle Kernow CIC offers various activities and services, including clothes swap parties, a tool library, a repair café, upskilling workshops, and a refill and recycling station. These activities aim to bring together diverse community members, combat isolation, and provide valuable life skills, as well as addressing climate action issues.
Overall, the project aims to create a holistic, environmentally conscious and inclusive community space that addresses various societal and environmental challenges while promoting sustainability and community growth.
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