The ‘Inner Sanctum’ initiative launched in January 2021 inspired the creation of several eco-communities across the UK as People have been coming together to pool resources and acquire land.
I am delighted to let you know that on 7 June 2022 we acquired Cressbrook Dale Estate ~ a breathtaking c70 acre site near to Monsal Head in the Peak District National Park, Derbyshire UK.
This opportunity came about quite by chance via one of our local Bakewell ‘Stand in the Park’ regulars who knew the Estate Management Team at Stanton Estate. They had acquired the land when the Cressbrook Mill went bankrupt in the 1930’s, had found it difficult to manage, but wanted it to go to a good home.
The opportunity necessitated a complete shift in our initial vision ~ as although all c50 acres of forest and c20 acres of pastureland is agricultural there are no farm buildings on site. However it is rich in all the resources required for self-sustainability with natural springs plenty of wood and sheltered from the harsher elements of weather.
We’re managing it remotely for now (it’s 12 minutes away from Bakewell where I live) and hope to rent or buy properties in the area as a closer base for those wishing to be on site more regularly.
Gratitude to the 22 beautiful souls who pooled resources to crowdfund the purchase.
Although we have acquired all c70 acres, we negotiated to pay the consideration over a two year period. Therefore 50% of the freehold is still available if you would like to be involved. Please email Rachel [at] rachelelnaugh [dot] com with Cressbrook in your email title for more information.
Here is the Despacho offering we made to the land on Saturday in gratitude ~ a Q’ero tradition I learned during many visits to Peru.
Prayers offered in the Despacho included the wish for Peace on Earth to prevail.
