The Poorsland Trustees own both land and buildings on the East side of Slaidburn village. This charitable trust was established in 1826 in order to benefit the residents of Slaidburn and the surrounding villages. The income for the charity was derived from the agricultural rents attached to the land and buildings. As with all agricultural businesses reduced returns from the land and deterioration of the traditional buildings has required the Trustees to look at new opportunities.

Business Development:

The Trustees main assets were a range of traditional buildings located in a prominent location overlooking the River Hodder on the fringe of Slaidburn village. Residential conversion may have been possible; however this would have been against the Trustees' desire to secure real long term benefit for the village. The proposal was therefore to convert the buildings into Community workspace and offices.

Poors'land Trust Plans

With assistance from Lancashire Rural Futures detailed proposals were submitted for planning consultation alongside a significant environmental package for the farm holding. Following approval LRF then sourced and submitted full applications to both the North West Development Agency and Objective 2 for capital assistance towards the project.

The building, which was officially opened on 14 th September by Lord and Lady Shuttleworth is home to eight units which are let out at a discounted rate to local residents, encouraging new business start ups and new jobs in the area. The businesses range from a wedding consultant to a glass artist.

Poors'land Trust Business Units

Environmental Development:

An integral element of the proposal was to enter the Poorsland’s agricultural holding into Countryside Stewardship. The site is registered as a County Biological Heritage Site. The package includes entering all the land under long term management to enhance the existing pasture and hay meadow. In addition a substantial capital improvement package is also to be undertaken including the restoration of traditional boundaries such as stone walls and hedges.

Marsh Marigold and Cuckoo Flower

The environmental package has been used to support both the planning submission and capital grant applications. Upon completion the environmental qualities of the surrounding farm will also be utilised in the marketing of the rental units. The Stewardship package will also generate new income to the Trust which will be put back into the local community.