PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE together

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It has been an incredibly tough year. Nobody could have predicted it, and nobody could have understood how devastating and life changing it would be. It can seem as though no aspect of life has been untouched and normal is too far away. We have had to find new ways to shop, socialise, educate, work but most importantly care for each other whilst living with an ever-present and deadly threat.

Masham stood up. As one we have looked out for each other, made sure people had food and medicine, found ways to keep in touch when we are alone in our own homes. The churches, the community office, the cafes, pubs, shops, schools, every member of our community - we are all achieving the impossible; helping people smile and connect even now the days are short and grey. We see the spring shoots appearing - at St Mary's and at vaccination centres.

At times it has felt like the project was just too much to do in the midst of a pandemic, too distant to be focussing our energy on. But somehow the train was already started and so we just kept moving with it and we are starting to see the results! The emerging reality of our vision for a lively space where you can live and breathe history whilst doing your shop or learning a trade. A safe home for those in our community we do not want to see leave town.

All the many surveys and reports were written. The designs were drawn, redrawn and redrawn again, and the business models written and tested. Yes, things took longer due to Covid19 restrictions but also Zoom meant we could meet with architects in Newcastle more frequently, talk with experts from across the UK, and our volunteers stuck at home were able to give time to some of the detailed researching that has needed to take place.
We are so pleased to announce that our Planning Application is now live. You can read about all our plans for 15 Silver Street. Find the place to sit and eat your cake and research your family history – or the plant room that will keep our tenants warm without destroying the planet! Our Design Statement is here

We want Masham businesses to be an integral part of what is delivered. Could your business provide the cakes, the skills workshops, the old till, the cabinetry – just let us know!

We want to hear your views. This building is for Masham. Covid19 has meant we have not been able to talk with everyone as much as we would have liked.

Now is the time to tell us – Have we got it right? Have we managed to fit in the activities or services you want for Masham? Can you help make it real?
[email protected]
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