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Revitalising Sheerness: An Update on the Historic Boat Store Project

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We hope this blog post finds you well and that you’ve had a wonderful year so far. We’re looking forward to 2025 with renewed energy and focus on our mission to revitalise the Historic Boat Store and create a brighter future for Sheerness.

Here’s the latest from The DVS!

Securing the Lease for Shed 78:

We’ve commissioned the services of an architect (Graham) to conduct a functional fit assessment of the Boat Store. With input from Historic England and Swale Council we will produce a proposal which will be submitted to Peel Port with our scheme of work for consideration. We anticipate having exciting news to share within the first quarter of 2025.

Engineering Survey and Pre-App Meeting:

Graham has also identified engineers to conduct a thorough survey of Shed 78. Once we are granted access by Peel Port and on completion of the engineering report, we will arrange a pre-application meeting with Historic England and Swale Council to discuss the renovation plans in detail.

Renovation and Fundraising:

Once the lease is secured our immediate focus is on the essential repairs and renovation of the Historic Boat Store. Our Advisory Group on Funding will spearhead the development of strategies to secure the necessary resources for this phase of the project. This will include grant applications, crowdfunding campaigns, and seeking support from corporate sponsors.

Community Engagement:

We are eager to hear your thoughts and ideas as we move forward with the renovation plans. We will be announcing dates for online and in-person consultations soon. Stay tuned for more information!

“Journey of a Lifetime” Update:

Our arts and community project, “Journey of a Lifetime,” is gaining momentum. We are currently developing creative workshops and identifying community venues in Nigeria to host the programme’s activities.

Timeline Update

Due to the necessary focus on securing funding for the renovation phase, the development of the carbon-neutral yacht is now projected to commence in 2026. This adjustment allows us to ensure the Historic Boat Store is fully restored and equipped to support the yacht’s construction.

How You Can Help

  • Support our Fundraising Efforts: Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference. Stay tuned for updates on our crowdfunding campaign and other fundraising initiatives.
  • Volunteer Your Time and Skills: We are always looking for skilled volunteers to join our team. Whether you have experience in construction, fundraising, marketing, digital media, or event planning, we welcome your contributions.
  • Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness by sharing our story with your friends, family, and colleagues.

Thank you for your continued support! We are excited to embark on this next chapter with you as we work together to create a thriving future for Sheerness.

Sheerness Revitalisation Project: Gaining Momentum!

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Introduction:

Hello again, supporters! It’s been a busy few weeks since our last update on 18th October, and we’re excited to share the latest progress on our journey to revitalise the Historic Boat Store and create a sustainable future for Sheerness. Thanks to your ongoing support, we’re making great strides!

Project Diary – November 2024 Update:

  • Shed 78 Assessment Underway: As we mentioned in our last newsletter, we’ve engaged a leading architectural consultancy to assess the Historic Boat Store. They’ve already begun their thorough evaluation, and we’re looking forward to receiving their detailed report soon. This assessment will be crucial in guiding the renovation and ensuring that Shed 78 is fit for purpose.
  • Heritage Collaboration: We’ve also had positive initial discussions with Historic England to ensure our plans for Shed 78 meet their high standards for heritage preservation. This collaboration is essential to ensure we revitalise the building in a way that respects its history and character.
  • Partnerships and Funding: We’re delighted to report that we’re building strong partnerships with local authorities and exploring exciting opportunities with potential corporate sponsors who share our vision. And remember the Advisory Group on Funding we mentioned? We’re on track to formalise this group by the end of January 2025. They’ll be instrumental in securing the financial resources we need to make this project a reality. The Heritage and Innovation Task Force will follow soon after, focusing on integrating the latest sustainable practices into our plans.

Community Engagement:

We’re eager to hear your thoughts and ideas as we move forward. Starting in the new year, we’ll be hosting online and in-person consultations to ensure the community is actively involved in shaping the future of the Historic Boat Store. Keep an eye out for announcements about these events in the coming weeks!

“Journey of a Lifetime” – Empowering Young Voices:

We’re also thrilled to share more details about our “Journey of a Lifetime” film advocacy programme. This initiative, run in collaboration with our sister company, will use the power of creative arts to empower young people in Kent and Nigeria. Through theatre and film workshops, we’ll help them tell their stories, build confidence, and develop valuable skills.

“Journey of a Lifetime” will focus on:

  • Healing and self-expression: Providing a safe and creative outlet for young people to process their experiences and emotions.
  • Skill development: Training participants in acting, filmmaking, and teamwork, equipping them with valuable skills for the future.
  • Raising awareness: Sharing the stories of vulnerable youth to promote understanding and challenge stigma.
  • Sustainable funding: Generating ongoing support for the programme through live performances and digital outreach.

How You Can Get Involved:

  • Join the Conversation: Register for our first virtual consultation in the new year! We’ll be sharing project updates and gathering your feedback. Dates and registration details will be announced soon.
  • Support Our Crowdfunding Campaign: Your donations will be vital in helping us secure the future of Shed 78 and create a thriving hub for heritage and innovation.
  • Volunteer Your Skills: We’re always looking for talented individuals to join our volunteer team. If you have experience in construction, branding, renewable energy, or community engagement, we’d love to hear from you!

Stay Connected:

We’re excited about the progress we’re making, and we’re grateful for your continued support. Stay up-to-date by visiting our website (https://www.thedvs.co.uk) for the latest news and updates, or email us at c.akran@thedvs.co.uk

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey!

Bold Vision for Sheerness: Historic Boat Store Transformation Underway!

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Introduction:

Exciting news! The “Bold Vision for Sheerness” project is officially launched, and we’re thrilled to share our progress with you. Remember the inspiring energy at our recent event? That passion is fueling our mission to preserve Sheerness’s heritage while creating a sustainable future.

Our Mission:

At the heart of our project lies the magnificent Historic Boat Store (Shed 78) at Peel’s Port. Imagine this: a beautifully restored building, buzzing with activity, where we’re building a groundbreaking carbon-neutral yacht! This vessel, the first of its kind, will embark on a symbolic voyage to Nigeria, honoring ancestry, environmental responsibility, and community pride.

Project Highlights:

Phase 1 (Now – April 2025):

  • We’re working hard to secure the lease for Shed 78.
  • Building strong partnerships with Peel Ports, Historic England, and local authorities is a top priority.
  • We’ve assembled an Advisory Group on Funding to help us raise the resources needed to achieve our goals.
  • Our Heritage and Innovation Task Force is expertly guiding the integration of sustainable practices into the restoration.
  • Community consultations are launching soon! We want to ensure the local community is central to every step of this project.

How You Can Help:

Ready to join the journey? Here are four areas in which you can get involved:

1. Fuel the Vision: Donate!

Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference. Your donations will help us secure the lease for Shed 78 and begin the vital restoration work.

  • Donate Online: Our crowdfunding campaign is coming soon!
  • Corporate Sponsorships: Businesses, we invite you to partner with us and support this extraordinary project.

2. Share Your Skills:

We need talented volunteers with expertise in:

  • Construction
  • Engineering
  • Maritime Heritage
  • Community Outreach Are you passionate about heritage conservation or green energy? Join our Task Force!

3. Internship Opportunities: Are you a budding branding or digital design whiz? We’re looking for interns to help us build a strong online presence. Please send your CV to @c.akran@thedvs.co.uk

4. Be an Advocate: Your voice matters! Help us gain support from local and national politicians. Write to your MP, local councillors, or community leaders and tell them why this project is important. Let’s work together to unlock funding streams from the private sector too.

Upcoming Events: Stay tuned for dates for our upcoming stakeholder engagement events! We’ll be hosting both online and in-person events where you can share your ideas and feedback. We’ll share details about virtual meetings soon.

Stay Connected: Visit our website (www.thedvs.co.uk) to stay up-to-date on the latest news and progress. Together, we can transform the Historic Boat Store and build a greener future for Sheerness!

Let’s make history! Let’s inspire change! Let’s sail towards a sustainable tomorrow!

Contact Us: For more information or to get involved, email us at c.akran@thedvs.co.uk.

Net Zero 50 List – House of Lords reception

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With a vision to use sustainable materials and innovations within the yacht building industry to make the future greener and carbon neutral. The Duke Voyager’s Shipyard, a sustainable start-up working in collaboration with the University of Kent to transform the yacht building industry was nominated in the Net Zero 50 List.

The University of Kent became involved in the project earlier this year after Tony Duke attended a net zero workshop organised by the University and funded by the Government’s Community Renewal Fund as part of a wider programme in partnership with the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce

Picture curtesy of Digital leaders

The reception was hosted by Lord Jim Knight who welcomed nominees to the House of Lords and outlined the challenges faced in reaching our climate goals.

Dr Mattie Yeta, freshly returned from COP27 provided insight into current global efforts and the potential for sustainable growth across sectors.

Prof Adam Beaumont (Eden Project) presented the People’s Choice Award to the UK Schools Sustainability Network, winner of the online vote from the Net Zero 50 list with over 5000 votes.

Networking with breakfast
Robin Knowles CEO Digital Leaders

Dr Robert Barker, a Lecturer in Chemistry and Forensic Science at the University, is working with the Shipyard to explore sustainable alternatives to traditional yacht components and systems and manufacturing processes. This will include identifying suitable manufacturing sites and partners to ensure the yacht lifecycle -from production and operation to disposal- amounts to net zero carbon emissions.

Tony Duke said, “Working with Rob and his PhD student Alix Blissett has really pushed forward our green vision. The specialist knowledge and expertise available through the University’s Innovation programme will keep us on track to start the yacht build in 2023.”

The Net Zero Deep Dive Training Programme consisted of a series of workshops led by experts within the University of Kent, designed to change hearts and minds on what does ‘net-zero’ mean and what are the challenges – from technological, to moral, to achieving it. Qualifying businesses who attended the workshops were able to apply for up to £5,000 to continue to work with Kent academics to meet their net zero goals.

#greenyacht #netzero #sustainablesailing #netzerosailing #netzeroyacht #zerocarbonyacth #zercarbonsailing #greensailng