Donate-a-Gate

Since the introduction of the scheme via Chiltern News (in 2005) the generosity of donors has enabled the installation of over 150 'donated' gates to date. This has improved both access and safety for all users at a variety of locations throughout the central Chilterns area (see map below).

If you would like to donate a gate, there is a link to the necessary application form at the bottom of this page.

Most gates carry plaques with inscriptions of the donors' choice for example, as a memorial or to celebrate an event.

The success of the scheme has only been possible as a result of close co-operation between The Chiltern Society Path Maintenance Volunteers (Central Chilterns) who carry out the installations, and Bucks County Council Rights of Way who identify potential locations for the gates and contact landowners to obtain their agreement.

 

Gift Aid

In addition, as a consequence of donor generosity, the 'Gift Aid' tax benefit claimed by the Chiltern Society, as a registered charity and re-invested in the Donate-a-Gate scheme, has provided additional funds to enable the installation of a further 50-plus gates that otherwise would not have been available. The Central Chilterns PMV have already started the installation of these gates which can be identified by the inclusion of a 'Gift Aid' plaque in recognition of the donors. The intention is for these gates to be located primarily on major 'promoted' routes and to further develop local stile-free walks.

The Future

It is to be hoped that there will be more new donors who are prepared to assist with the improvement of footpath access to enable the scheme to continue into the future for the benefit of all abilities throughout the Central Chilterns area. Forms are available from the Society Office, Chesham, tel. 01494 771250, or you can find one using the link below.

 

Our Donate-a-Gate scheme is carried out by our Path Maintenance Volunteers, at the request of the County Council Rights of Way Officers and is intended improve access for all users.

It is particularly intended however for those who find stiles difficult to cope with. Some are specifically designed to allow access by users of mobility vehicles on some routes. The maintenance of a stile is seen, quite rightly, as a cheaper option to its replacement with a gate, but with your donation we are replacing some stiles.

To acknowledge your help, the gate can carry a short inscription with the name of the donor and the date of the donation. Short memorial inscriptions can also be made.

To donate a gate, please contact the Chiltern Society office on 01494 771250, or use the Donate-a-Gate application form (29KB PDF. Left click to load it in a new window, right click to download it to your computer).

Please print out the form, complete it and return it as described on it. Thank you.