News from the BVT!

Brockenhurst Village Trust Summer Update

The Trust continues to make impactful strides across Brockenhurst. Summer saw the successful launch of a new bar and meeting room, enhancing community spaces. Record-breaking charity shop sales and growing online retail presence are boosting financial sustainability.
The Brockenhurst Community Action Group is driving real change, with initiatives like Bin Matters reducing missed collections from 60% to 5%. Investment in youth facilities is also progressing, with the new MUGA fence nearing completion ahead of October half term.

1. Enhancing Community Infrastructure and Engagement
The successful launch of the new bar and meeting room in September marks a significant step in improving community facilities. Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the Trust’s commitment to creating welcoming, multi-use spaces that support both social and professional gatherings. The meeting room, designed for small meetings, presentations and team sessions, reflects our investment in high-quality, flexible environments that serve both residents and local organisations.

2. Strengthening Financial Sustainability Through Retail Innovation
August saw record-breaking sales at the Brookley Road charity shop, underscoring its vital role in funding Trust-led initiatives. The continued growth of the shop’s eBay presence expands our reach and revenue potential, supporting long-term sustainability. This success is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and the strategic importance of diversifying income streams.

3. Strengthening Community Communications to Deliver Tangible Positive Impact
The Brockenhurst Community Action Group (BCAG), a sub-committee of BVT, has now had its Terms of Reference formally approved by the Trust Board—an important step in establishing clear governance and accountability. This structure enables BCAG to operate with greater strategic focus and effectiveness.

Recent initiatives led by the group, such as Brockenhurst Brush Up and Bin Matters, have demonstrated its ability to mobilise local action and deliver measurable improvements. Notably, the Bin Matters campaign reduced missed bin collections from 60% to just 5%, by successfully bringing together residents, contractors, and local authorities to resolve issues. These outcomes highlight the strategic value of coordinated community engagement in driving meaningful change across Brockenhurst.

With funding secured from NFDC, the installation of the new MUGA fence is nearly complete and the facility is on track to open before October half term. This investment supports our strategic goal of enhancing recreational opportunities for younger residents in particular. The Trust will engage with local stakeholders, including our immediate neighbours, to ensure inclusive, respectful and effective use of the space. Planning is also underway to review and improve the adjacent green space, reinforcing our commitment to accessible, high-quality open space for our community. Please keep a watch out for ways to get involved with this.