2025 – A year of change and challenges!

Happy New year!

2025 looks set to be a key year for Sustain Britain. Following the conference and delegate feedback, we have developed a draft version of the manifesto/vision document. This will be refined and structured over the coming weeks.

We are keen that we not only set out the principles and visions behind the Sustain Britain movement, but that we also address specific areas where local and national government can act to support the development of a truly sustainable Britain.

Recent events in the world have increased the need to rethink our approach. The Musk-Trump era will provide many challenges for the world. We need to develop local solutions, strong communities and a sustainable Britain to withstand the turbulence that is coming.

Part of the solution to this pending turmoil is undoubtedly the work being undertaken by Sustain Wiltshire. This makes it all the more frustrating that the Office of the Regulator of Community Interest Companies (CIC) is dragging its feet, because it sees Sustain Wiltshire is a ‘special’ case, due to its size and ambition.

If you want to set up a limited company of any size that is not a problem. If you want to set up a small CIC for a small community project - again not an issue. But if you want to set up a large CIC that will deliver significant benefits to the community, well that’s a different matter.

For reasons that continue to confound us, this is an issue that requires special consideration. That means one thing: yet more delay!

One word: Why?!

Until next time.

Nick Ash