Putting Local People in Charge of Local Places
Chanctonbury Community Land Trust (CCLT) is a community-led, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to creating a more sustainable, prosperous and resilient future for the people of Thakeham and the surrounding parishes in West Sussex.
We believe that local people should have a real say in how their communities develop. By bringing residents together, we can protect valued local assets, create new opportunities and deliver projects that provide lasting social, economic and environmental benefits.
What is a Community Land Trust?
A Community Land Trust (CLT) is a democratic, community-owned organisation that enables local people to steward land and assets for the long-term benefit of their community.
Anyone who lives or works within the local area can become a member and help shape the future of their community. Unlike commercial developers, CLTs put community benefit first, ensuring that land and assets are managed for generations to come.
Across England and Wales, there are more than 550 Community Land Trusts. While many focus on delivering affordable housing, CLTs can also own and manage a wide range of community assets, including village shops, pubs, workspaces, green spaces, woodland and nature reserves.
Our Vision
CCLT was established in August 2024 with a simple ambition:
To empower local communities to create sustainable social, economic and environmental gains that benefit current and future generations.
We aim to:
- Secure long-term community prosperity
- Support local businesses and attract investment
- Create and protect high-quality, sustainable places to live and work
- Enhance local skills and opportunities
- Safeguard important community assets
- Protect and enhance our natural environment
Although we are a young organisation, we have a strong commitment to making a meaningful and lasting difference across our communities.
Why "Chanctonbury"?
Our name is inspired by the iconic Chanctonbury Ring, which stands proudly above our communities on the South Downs.
For more than 2,000 years, this remarkable landmark has overlooked the villages and countryside of West Sussex. Its rich history and enduring presence symbolise the values that underpin our Trust: stewardship, resilience and a commitment to future generations.
Just as Chanctonbury Ring has stood the test of time, we aim to create projects and community assets that will continue to benefit local people for decades to come.
Community-Owned and Democratically Run
CCLT is owned by its Members and governed by a volunteer Board of Management elected by those Members.
Every Member has an equal voice, regardless of how many shares they hold, ensuring that decisions are made in the interests of the community as a whole.
We actively encourage Members who are passionate about their community and who can contribute skills and experience to consider joining our Board.
What We Do
CCLT works to develop, manage and support projects that strengthen our communities, including:
🏡 Affordable homes for local people
🏢 Flexible workspace and facilities for start-ups and small businesses
🏪 Community shops, post offices and other essential local services
🌳 Woodland, green spaces and nature reserves
🤝 Projects that enhance community wellbeing and resilience
Every project is designed to deliver lasting community benefit and help ensure that local assets remain in local hands.
Our Status
Chanctonbury Community Land Trust Limited is a Community Benefit Society registered with the Financial Conduct Authority under the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 (Registration No. 9391).
We are an independent, non-profit organisation owned by our Members and committed to serving the communities of Thakeham and the surrounding parishes.
CCLT is also a proud member of the Community Land Trust Network. For more information about CLTs visit Community Land Trust Network
Join Us
The future of our communities belongs to all of us. Whether you want to become a Member, support a project, volunteer your skills or help shape our vision, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Together, we can create a stronger, more sustainable future for our communities.