Brett Support For New Girlguiding Campsite Clubhouse

Situated near Canterbury, Kent, the Mystole Campsite has belonged to Girlguiding Kent East for over 25 years. Although the scenic 24-acre site already included three dry shelters, it was missing a central building that could fully accommodate visitors of all age groups. Girlguiding Kent East’s vision for a new residential building extends back to initial planning stages in 2017.

Construction for the project started on 24th February 2020 against the backdrop of COVID. The building was required to be sympathetic with the local environment, leading to the choice of a wooden framed and clad design. Using local contractors and following social distancing, the project saw completion during May this year, followed by a celebratory opening event in July.

The new building has been a long-awaited addition to the 24-acre campsite, offering the area a central hub with various uses. The finished club house is fully equipped with separate rooms, a modern kitchen and accessible shower facilities. These new amenities allow for overnight camps, group meetings, activity weekends and other events.

Alexa Laurence, Kent East County Commissioner, said: “We were thrilled to receive a donation from Brett at a time when we were having to fund internal finishes; the donation helped to fund the flooring for the building, including specialist flooring for the kitchen and bathroom areas. This was vital support for the project as we needed to ensure suitable flooring for heavy traffic in all areas!

“We have over 4,000 young people and volunteers involved in Girlguiding in east Kent and this figure is growing rapidly as we return to the ‘new normal’. Thanks to this wonderful resource, we will be able to offer residential opportunities all year round.

“We are very grateful to Brett for supporting this local project and enabling it to be completed in 2021 despite all the restrictions. It will be part of our positive support to encourage young women to experience the outdoors.”

Girlguiding Kent East Mystole Clubhouse: Image courtesy of National Timber Buildings