AN AMBITIOUS project in the area which restored an ancient village structure has been highlighted as one of the best in the county.

The Arlingham Pound Restoration has received an award for excellence in environmental and community impact by the countryside charity CPRE.

The medieval structure, located off Church Road, had been neglected for more than two centuries but was restored this summer.

One of the Pound’s stone side walls collapsed last year, prompting councillors from Arlingham Parish Council to take action and acquire the site.

The project saw 70 volunteers donate their time, materials and equipment, re-using on-site stone and employing local craftspeople.

The Arlingham Pound originally formed part of the former Arlingham Court Estate.

An awards ceremony was held at Elmore Court Estate on Tuesday, November 12. Other recipients in the district included Amberley Shop and Café and Arundel Mill Pond Eel Pass.

Since 2008, CPRE Gloucestershire has celebrated innovative initiatives, with a total of 95ninety-five projects honoured over the past 17 years. Following this year’s awards, the total number of recognised projects reached 100.

Richard Lloyd, vice-chair of CPRE Gloucestershire, said: “We are thrilled to reach this incredible achievement, thanks to the dedication and passion of all the projects and people involved over the 17 years.”

To nominate projects in the county for the 2025 awards visit - www.cpreglos.org.uk/awards

The Arlingham Pound before and after restoration works Image: Marc Freebrey / Arlingham Parish Council(l -r) CPRE Gloucestershire president Madeleine Bunting, Cllr Catherine Braun, Jenny Rogers from Enovert Community Trust, Cllr Jon Shaw, stone mason Bernard Roberts, Cllr David Merrett and wood craftsman John Merrett