The idea
Just nine months ago, our volunteer-run village shop in Down Ampney was at risk of closing, with falling footfall and ongoing losses. Since then, a new committee, a salaried manager, increased volunteer support, and key upgrades—including a barista coffee machine, new refrigeration, and improved kitchen equipment—have transformed it into a thriving café and retail space.
Today, the shop is more than somewhere to buy essentials. It’s a welcoming hub where residents from Down Ampney and nearby villages gather for coffee, meals, and locally sourced produce. By working with and supporting local suppliers—bakeries, dairies, butchers, greengrocers, and creameries—we strengthen the local economy while bringing people together.
This transformation has already doubled footfall and revitalised community life. Now, we need to secure the future by building on this success and ensuring the shop remains a sustainable, community-focused space for years to come.
What we'll deliver
- Installation of new solar panels & battery storage
- Installation of energy efficient lighting
- Reducing our carbon footprint
- Securing the future of the shop and cafe as a community hub
- Reduced commuting for shopping, eating and socialising
Why it's a great idea
Our campaign will transform our shop / cafe into a more sustainable, efficient, and future-ready space. By upgrading to modern solar panels and energy-efficient lighting, we will significantly reduce our energy consumption and operating costs, allowing us to reinvest savings back into the enterprise and community.
The new solar and battery storage system will provide cleaner, more reliable energy Low energy lighting will reduce costs and create a brighter, safer, and more welcoming environment for customers and staff, enhancing the overall experience in our space.
These upgrades will not only strengthen the long-term sustainability of our shop, but also reduce our environmental impact, supporting a greener future. With your support, we can build a more resilient enterprise that continues to serve and benefit the community for years to come.This project is about more than upgrading a building, it’s about strengthening the future of the Down Ampney community.
Steps to get it done
- Project Planning & Procurement
- Installation
- Testing & Commissioning
- Project Completion
