Friends of Westdene Green

Long fought battle

A community group in Westdene, have won a long fought battle to gain control of a local building known as ‘The Barn’. Friends of Westdene Green (FoWDG) has been campaigning since November to win the lease to The Barn on Westdene Green, which is owned by Brighton and Hove Council and has been used as a site for a charity playgroup for 20 years. It is operated separately from the lower half of the building, which continues to be run as My First Friends Nursery.

Lots of community activities

The win follows months of negotiations with the Council. During negotiations, a barrister acting pro bono on behalf of the group, highlighted a covenant dating back to 1938, which states that trade was not permitted on the land. Now, the refurbished Barn will be used for a variety of clubs and activities for all ages and abilities. These are likely to include craft workshops, fitness classes, group meetings as well as the children’s birthday parties which have traditionally been held there. Our community will decide what they want to see happening there

Volunteers needed

Now The Barn is about to return to community hands the group needs people who are willing to help them go forward. They are now seeking volunteers to help run The Barn, which requires refurbishment and ongoing support. Can you offer help with any areas of expertise, or give some of your time, or you may have ideas about something else? We’re actively looking for local builders to help with the refurbishment and creative people to help us host some amazing community events