Introduction

Kettlebrook Lodge, home to the 2nd Kimberley Scout Group, has been an established community space for many decades. Alongside the main site lies an adjoining area of land that has long been used as part of the wider Scout environment, supporting outdoor learning, nature-based activities, and community engagement.

The Land and Its Use

The land in question is currently unregistered, meaning there is no formally recorded legal owner. For over 40 years, the Scout Group has used and cared for this space as an integrated part of its site. During this time, volunteers have maintained the area, and it has been regularly used for scouting activities, environmental projects, and outdoor education. This consistent and long-term use forms an important part of the current situation.

Recent Developments

In recent months, a neighbouring property developer has raised questions about the Scout Group’s use of the land and expressed an intention to take ownership. This has led to a dispute concerning boundaries, land use, and responsibilities for maintenance and safety features.

Development activity began in March 2026, with plans indicating potential residential use of nearby property. Despite a request from the Scout Group to maintain existing boundary arrangements while the situation was clarified, part of the boundary fencing has since been removed. This has created safety concerns, particularly for young people who access and use the space.

Current Position

The situation has highlighted the need for clarity regarding ownership and rights over the land. Advice from the local authority confirms that the land is unregistered and that any claim to ownership would depend on evidence of long-term use, maintenance, and control.

Relevant stakeholders are aware of the situation and are supportive of ensuring that the correct legal processes are followed to reach a fair and lawful outcome.

Legal Considerations

The Scout Group has sought legal advice to better understand its position. This includes exploring whether an adverse possession claim may be appropriate. Adverse possession is a legal process through which ownership of land may be claimed if there is sufficient evidence of long-term use, management, and intention to treat the land as one’s own.

Legal review is focused on examining historical use of the land, evidence of maintenance and control, and the overall strength of any potential claim. Consideration is also being given to immediate practical steps that may help protect the Scout Group’s current position while the matter is being resolved.

Purpose of Action

The Scout Group’s interest in the land is based on its longstanding role as part of the Scout site and its value to the community. The area provides an important outdoor space for activities, learning, and environmental engagement.

The intention is to protect the land so that it can continue to be used safely and effectively for the benefit of current members and future generations of young people.

Community Involvement

To support its understanding of the land’s history, the Scout Group is gathering information from the local community. Photographs, records, and personal recollections of how the land has been used over time may contribute to building a clearer picture of its long-term role and significance.

Overall Summary

The land adjacent to Kettlebrook Lodge has been used and maintained by the Scout Group for several decades but remains unregistered. A recent boundary and usage dispute with a neighbouring party has prompted the Group to seek legal advice and consider its options.

The focus is on establishing a clear legal position while prioritising the safety of those using the space and safeguarding its continued use as a valuable community resource.

JustGiving Statement – Legal Fundraising Statement

By donating to this appeal, you are supporting 2nd Kimberley Scout Group in meeting the legal costs associated with pursuing an adverse possession claim in respect of the land referred to in publicly available documents.

All funds raised will be paid directly to 2nd Kimberley Scout Group and will be used solely to support the charity’s legal expenses in connection with this matter.

Please note that:

- Donations do not give donors any legal interest in the land, any say in the conduct, strategy, settlement, or outcome of the legal proceedings, or any role in decision making.

- The litigation process involves risk, and success is not guaranteed.

- Any decisions relating to the legal claim will be made exclusively by the charity acting through its trustees, in accordance with their legal duties and the charity’s best interests.

By donating, you acknowledge that your contribution is made as a voluntary gift to support the charity’s purposes and that you will not form part of the legal process or acquire any rights in relation to the claim or its outcome.

Issued by

Kettlebrook Lodge Trustee Board

2nd Kimberley Scout Group