About the Upwey Society
The Upwey Society is a voluntary community organisation that has been serving the village since 1974. It was established by local residents who wished to protect the unique character of Upwey while encouraging community spirit and preserving the village's natural and historic environment.
Over the past five decades the Society has played an important part in village life, organising community events, supporting conservation projects and providing a forum where residents can discuss local issues affecting Upwey.
Why the Society Was Formed
The Society was founded with three principal aims:
To maintain and improve the special character of Upwey.
To organise meetings, talks and community events.
To raise funds for projects that benefit the village.
These objectives remain at the heart of the Society today.
A Brief History
The 1970s were a period of considerable change for Upwey. New housing developments were taking place, the village school closed in 1976, and many residents wanted to ensure that the village retained its historic identity.
The Upwey Society was formed in 1974 to help protect the village and give residents a stronger voice in local matters. One of its early achievements came in 1978, when, following considerable effort by Society members, the former village school was preserved and became a community centre rather than being lost to redevelopment. During the same period, Elwell Street was designated a Conservation Area, helping to safeguard one of Dorset's most attractive historic streets.
Since then the Society has continued to work with residents, local authorities and other organisations to protect and enhance Upwey.
Community Activities
Over the years the Society has organised or supported many popular village events, including:
Upwey Open Gardens
Bonfire Night and Fireworks
Village talks and illustrated lectures
Summer social events
Family activities
Community projects
Local history and heritage initiatives
These events have helped bring generations of residents together while raising funds for village projects.
Planning and Conservation
The Society has taken an active interest in planning applications and local environmental issues, representing residents where appropriate and helping to preserve the special character of the village.
This has included commenting on planning proposals, supporting conservation initiatives and working with other organisations on projects affecting Upwey and its surroundings.
Membership
Membership is open to all households in Upwey.
