Lord Ivar Mountbatten, the owner of the 100-acre Bridwell estate, has proposed a £60-per-year Friends of Bridwell pass in order to maintain the land’s accessibility. The pass would include benefits such as discounts on food and beverages at the cafe.
The idea comes after an increase in living and running costs over the previous year has forced the estate’s maintenance, management, and operational requirements to skyrocket beyond what can be covered by the proceeds from coffee, cake, and community events.
Uffculme parish councillor for open spaces and footpaths, Mike Pollard, disapproved of the fee and deemed it “disgraceful” because it would dissuade certain individuals from accessing the parkland. According to him, this effectively “closes” the park to many individuals who cannot afford the fee.
Lord Ivar Mountbatten emphasised that they will not be able to remain in their current financial state for much longer if no adjustments are made. He emphasised that the pass was “well-researched and equitable” and noted that everyone is experiencing terrible financial conditions.
The Friends of Bridwell pass is scheduled to start in the spring and will hopefully provide the estate with much-needed financial support. Lord Ivar Mountbatten concluded, “We recognise that everyone is experiencing terrible financial circumstances.”
Lord Ivar Mountbatten, owner of the 100-acre Bridwell estate, has proposed a £60-per-year Friends of Bridwell pass to help keep his estate open in the face of mounting running costs. The pass will provide savings on food and beverages at the cafe, among other goodies.
Uffculme parish councillor for open spaces and footpaths, Mike Pollard, reacted on the planned fee, stating that it will discourage some individuals from accessing the park. According to him, the price is “closing the door” on many individuals who cannot afford it.
Lord Ivar Mountbatten addressed this worry, indicating that they will not be able to continue as they are for much longer if no adjustments are made to their financial condition. In addition, he affirmed that the pass was “well-researched and equitable” despite the challenging economic climate.
The Friends of Bridwell pass is scheduled to start in the spring and will hopefully provide the estate with much-needed financial support. Lord Ivar Mountbatten concluded, “We recognise that everyone is experiencing terrible financial circumstances.”
