How community-ownership is important for preservation
July 30, 2025
Babbinswood Organic Farm is following in Fordhall's community-owned footsteps
Fordhall is all about community, without community, there is no Fordhall. Community-ownership saved the farmland from purchase for development back in 2006 – following Charlotte and Ben’s (then 21 and 19) campaign to save their family home, £800,000 was raised, through the sale of non-profit-making community shares. The support received, not just through the UK, but around the globe, prevented the loss of a foggage system pioneered and practised by Arthur Hollins (Charlotte and Ben’s dad) around 100 years ago.
Starting with an interest group of just 26, each with a passion for Fordhall’s potential as a place for environmental education, preserving organic heritage, and conserving the landscape, the campaign grew to see around 8,000 people around the world holding shares in the farm. 20 years (almost) since the landslide into community-ownership, Fordhall remains a space for collaboration and diversification. Shareholders are heavily involved in the decision making around the farm’s community benefit projects and future – particularly at the annual AGM. If you want to join the movement not-for-profit shares are still available, perfect for that alternative gift with real purpose.
While Fordhall is heading towards the 20th anniversary of their journey, with a year of celebrations planned for his milestone, another Shropshire farm is just beginning theirs! Babbinswood Organic Farm, facing their own threat of land loss, and inspired by the Fordhall story, are campaigning to preserve their precious assets through placing it in the hands of people who believe these places are deserving of preservation over development. To find out more, and to purchase shares or offer any form of support, please visit www.babbinswoodfarmcbs.org.uk
Francesca Lant, Marketing and Communications Officer
