Site 209-213

The land adjoining the Gurdwara has served as an overflow car park for the congregation since 2003. At the time, the landlord was unable to utilise the site due to environmental restrictions arising from a chemical spill caused by a previous occupier.

Following the completion of the required legal remediation period, the landlord informed us of plans to redevelop the site during the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposed development included a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school and residential units.

These development plans have now been withdrawn, and the landlord has granted the Gurdwara a further two-year lease on a peppercorn rent basis.

Over the years, opportunities to secure the site have arisen but were unfortunately not successful. We have now been presented with what may be another valuable opportunity to acquire the land and safeguard it for the long-term needs and operations of the Gurdwara.

As this is the Sangat's Gurdwara, the Sangat's views and engagement are vital in shaping its future. There are several important questions that we must consider together, eg:

-   Should we seek to secure the site permanently, either in full or in part?
-   What would be the most beneficial use of the land for the Sangat and community?
-   What is the cost of acquiring the site, and what additional investment would be required for development?
-   How should funds be raised?
-   How would any loans or financing be repaid?
-   What other opportunities and challenges should be considered?

To help keep everyone informed, an Information Desk has been set up outside the main office where details currently available can be shared with members of the Sangat.

We would also like to engage experienced and skilled members of the Sangat as part of this journey. We warmly invite professionals and individuals with relevant expertise to contact either the Interim Project Manager (Sukhpal S Sekhon) or the President (Satwinder S Ahdan) to contribute ideas and participate in future brainstorming and planning sessions.

Together, with Guru Sahib's blessings and the Sangat's guidance, we can make informed decisions that will benefit both current and future generations.