Success for Bristol Wood Recycling

Congratulations to BWRP for their amazing achievement in paying off their bond investments and establishing a secure future in their premises. In March 2019, at a time when they couldn’t get a commercial loan they raised £430,000 of investment from their community, arranged through Bristol-based Triodos Bank. Repayment of the original sum, plus interest payments, had to be completed six years to the day from the original completion of the bond offer. This significant milestone has been achieved, with all bondholders being repaid, and Bristol Wood Recycling Project now safe in the heart of the city.

The successful repayment was achieved from financial surplus accrued over the six years through a closely followed business plan that stuck to the Community Wood Recycling model. They are now able to get a commercial mortgage (again through Triodos Bank) and can plan for an exciting future.

Ian Coles, Director of BWRP:

“For those of us at BWRP involved from the start of this amazing episode, this moment has something of a dream-like quality. An audacious scheme, to fulfil a bold idea, has drawn to its conclusive end, fulfilling all plans and expectations. Six years sticking to a plan- and fulfilling the stated objective- has demonstrated the tenacity and stamina in the team here justifying the faith of investment in us. It’s been a long and winding road and we’ve got here together!”

Ben Moss, BWRP Founder:

“After such humble beginnings it’s hard to imagine that now we would be in this position after twenty years – owning our own property in the heart of Bristol, so we can carry on doing our important work, doing good for people and planet, working together co-operatively – and keeping on putting Bristol on the map for pioneering and progressive projects. The last six years have been another successful chapter in the book of our history and we plan for many more chapters to come!”

This is an inspiring achievement by all the staff and volunteers at the project!