We are so excited to announce the completion of a stunning new outdoor learning and meeting area alongside the Chichester Shed! This beautiful space now features a welcoming decking area with comfortable seating and a cosy firepit, all nestled beside our magical community garden. This exciting addition provides a versatile and inspiring environment for learning, socialising, and connecting with nature.

This transformative project was made possible thanks to the incredible generosity of the Bernard Sunley Foundation, a family grant-making foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life for communities across England and Wales. The foundation’s support focuses on helping the young, elderly, disabled, and disadvantaged, ensuring that everyone has access to greater opportunities and enriching experiences.

Since its establishment in 1960, the Bernard Sunley Foundation has awarded over £140 million in grants, funding projects that make a real difference in local communities. Each year, they donate just over £4.5 million to capital projects that create meaningful community spaces and provide essential facilities for those in need.

Thanks to a generous £15,000 grant from the Bernard Sunley Foundation, CCDT was able to bring this vision to life. This new outdoor area will enable the Shed to continue to serve as a hub for learning projects, youth programs, and wellness activities. We and our youth delivery partners are already planning to host immersive outdoor sessions, fire and wildspace activities, and hands-on environmental learning experiences.

Comments Clare de Bathe, CCDT’s CEO, “This magical outdoor space is more than just a meeting area—it’s a place for people of all ages to come together, explore the natural world, and experience the many mental and physical health benefits that being outdoors can offer. Whether it’s gathering around the firepit for storytelling, engaging in creative workshops, or simply enjoying the peaceful garden surroundings, this space is designed to inspire and support wellbeing.”

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Bernard Sunley Foundation for making this dream a reality. Their belief in the power of community spaces has helped us create a truly special environment that will benefit countless individuals for years to come.

We can’t wait to welcome everyone to this wonderful new space—stay tuned for upcoming events and activities!  Take a look at what is going on at The Chichester Shed via the Spaces section of our website, or find out more about hiring or using the space by emailing bookings@chichestercdt.org.uk