A FARMER'S dream of selling more than 100 acres of land to the community to turn it into a 'forest farm' run by local people could become a reality.

Stephen Powell, 60, wants to sell his land on Llwyn Ffranc Farm, near Abergavenny, in a bid to turn it into a haven for food production, sustainable forestry and an education centre.

The farm, on the slopes of the Skirrid, stretches across some 136 acres of woodland and orchards, and is currently privately owned by Mr Powell.

However, the former Reuters journalist was inspired by an author of environmental books he had interviewed more than 30 years ago about the importance of sustainable forestry, and wants to see it happen in his own community.

He said, "E F Schumacher's mantra was "what we need is trees" and I was very much inspired by this."

Mr Powell is hoping to sell the farm into community ownership, turning it into a 'future farm' run by a board of local people.

The farm has been valued at around £1 million, but he says a strong public interest must be demonstrated before the ownership can be legally transferred to the community.

If the group cannot attract this by September 15 the farm will be sold off in lots.

There are tens of thousands of trees planted on the farm. "There is so much scope for further planting, the production of elder flower cordial, mushrooms and much more here," Mr Powell added.

He says this could become the biggest community project in South Wales and it already has the support and involvement of the Crucorney Energy Group.

The farm is also licensed to fell 5,000 conifers in its forest, and there are plans to run an education centre where children can learn about sustainable living.

Llwyn Ffranc Limited was set up in March this year to sell off £50 shares in the property, which can be redeemed after three years, and organisers are now looking for £60,000 of investment pledges by the September 15 deadline so the community scheme can be given the go-ahead.

In the last two weeks there has already been £15,000 pledged - and momentum is building.

"We have had investment pledges from local people in Abergavenny, from all over Britain and from France, Australia and Canada.

"There is excitement over the whole concept of a community forest farm," he said.

The initiative took a significant step forward on September 4 with the election of a seven-member ruling council.

Mr Powell said, "Our intention is that this council will oversee the transition from private to community ownership."

Mr Powell's passion for the idea continues through courses he has set up and run since 2007 on Gaian Leadership.

"Some 22 people have graduated on this course and six are going through the current one. They are involved in the initiative and have made pledges," said Mr Powell.

"The course focuses on the twin themes of personal and planetary renewal. Our deepest concern is leadership. For us, grounding leadership in a healing of the Earth is the great adventure of the 21st century."

For anyone interested in the initiative, all you need to do to make a pledge is send an e-mail to: [email protected]">[email protected] stating: "I pledge to buy (insert number) £50 shares in the industrial and provident society Llwyn Ffranc Limited when you launch your community share offer."

Alternatively you can telephone 01873 890032 or 07791 297014 and speak to Stephen Powell or Lucy Fleetwood for more information.