In an historic moment for Malvern Hills Trust, the organisation deposited its Parliamentary Bill on 27 November 2024.
This followed 10 years of hard and focused work on identifying the problems with outdated legislation and identifying the best solutions.
The Bill passed its first hurdle at the examiners’ hearing on 18 December, at which the Trust had to prove standing orders had been complied with.
The Bill has been allocated to the Lords and a petitioning period runs to 6 February. The Trust is urging anyone with questions on or concerns about the content of the Bill to come in to talk to Trust staff to see whether these can be resolved without incurring additional costs. Contact info@malvernhills.org.uk
The first reading will be on 22 January and the second reading in mid-February. If anyone asks for a debate the second reading will be put off to be timetabled.
Much of the Bill restates the Trust existing powers. There are additional powers to help the Trust manage the land under its care but no new provisions that will restrict access to the Hills and Commons.
More information about the proposals to future-proof the Trust for the benefit of the landscape and people is available here
The Trust continues to address misinformation about its governance change proposals, which are critical for taking the Trust into the 21st Century. You can find out more on the myth-busters web page
John Michael, Chair said:
“The board took full account of the feedback given in the public consultation and we have published the feedback online. The deposit of the Parliamentary Bill means that the proposed governance changes will be made under full public scrutiny.
“There are four private bills deposited this year, which is unusual. The Bill will be starting in the House of Lords.
“The changes proposed will increase the percentage of elected trustees whilst ensuring an appropriate mix of skills and relevant backgrounds on the Board.”
Deborah Fox, Chief Executive Officer said:
“For everyone that cares passionately for this iconic landscape it is a significant milestone. A couple of things that I feel would really make a difference in future will be having a supporters’ organisation for those that wish to follow the great work of the team to keep the Hills and Commons open and unspoiled so they can be enjoyed by everyone.
“Also, the ability to fundraise, which isn’t currently in our supporting legislation.”