Blog

As many of you are aware, we have been trying to get planning permission to install a second wind turbine here to complement our energy system. We were delighted to be able to have Alex Schlicke, from Scene Connect, who is an alternative energy planning specalist to lead this, following a successful grant application for £27,000 (Many thanks to Clare Stone for her help with this). The application was to have a 25 Kw wind turbine in addition to the 5Kw already here. Sadly we were informed last week that the planning application has been turned down by Maldon District Council. The reasons given were:

1. Visual impact  

2. Adverse impact on footpath  ( a bit galling as it is an unwalked path and we had good discussions with the local footpath officer and the ramblers and... Read More

The Othona Community featured in a recent article in the Morning Star written by Paul Simon. The inspirational Othona Community reports on the endurance and contemporary relevance of England's often overlooked Christian socalist tradition. Please take a look by clicking on the link below:

The Inspirational Othona Community

Dear Othona members,
It is with deep and abiding sadness that Jasmin, Tad and Rod would like to tell you that Ford died at home on 25th November, 2022. His funeral will be held on 5th January at Chelmsford crematorium.

As many of you will know who are friends of Ford, we had a very happy childhood at the camp, so many experiences that few people will ever be able to have again in this new, complicated world. We were both carefree and free to explore the natural surroundings and we learned how to talk to people from all walks of life.

Ford was a much-loved and frequent visitor, famous for his disappearing acts, usually at washing up or chapel time. In recent times, we spoke a lot together about all the people and places there and the things we got up to. Dave... Read More

Have you ever wondered about how the Othona Community first started? In a series of interviews featuring Jan Marshall, Norman Motley's daughter, you can hear all about the inspiration and founding of the Community. These interviews with Jan were conducted by Paul Simon, covering from the very beginning of the Community to her hopes for the future. There are seven sections to enjoy, the first one is published today and you can access it via this link:

https://youtu.be/pTy103ANlis

The next video will be available on Monday to enjoy. Many thanks to Jan for giving her time to share these recollections, to Paul for facilitating and arranging these sessions and to Nastassja Simensky for the filming and video production.