CAT appeal

 Sadly, the Centre for Alternative Technology is no longer open to casual visitors, though arrangements for group visits remain. The official release stated: 

With a heavy heart, we are closing our visitor centre to day visitors from today (9 November). It will, however, remain open for students, group visits, events, and courses.     Sadly, 14 positions are at risk at CAT and a full consultation will take place across at least 14 days. Staff wellbeing is of course our utmost priority, and we are providing specialist support to staff during this difficult time.   This decision has been made due to a number of factors, during a challenging time for the charity sector in the UK. The combination of rising running costs, reduced visitor numbers to Wales post-pandemic and funding delays have made it economically inviable to continue operating the visitor centre in its current model — despite our best efforts to mitigate these factors. However, our proposals to rejuvenate our eco centre are still progressing, and have been earmarked for significant funding. Once this funding is secured, it will allow us to re-open fully and raise more funds in future — inspiring many more people to take action on the climate and nature emergency through attracting more visitors, providing additional courses and learning opportunities, and expanding our accommodation so more people can stay at CAT when they visit from afar.   The Graduate School of the Environment and short course delivery are unaffected, as is our work with schools and other groups, and our Zero Carbon Britain Hub and Innovation Lab. In these ways we will continue our vital work sharing the skills, knowledge and tools required to tackle the climate and nature crisis.  As a supporter, your kindness and generosity makes such an incredible difference. Please donate today to help us continue creating and sharing practical solutions for a safer, healthier and fairer future.

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It seems to me that there is now all the more need to reach out to the local community, which was not the case in the past as shown by earlier comments on this blog. There would also seem to be a natural synergy between CAT and the National Botanic Gardens which could be more exploited. I write as one who has enjoyed visiting both several times.