Over the past several months, the Board of Trustees has conducted a thorough review of the prevailing economic environment and its impact on the operations of both St Peter’s Trust and the Cardinal Coffee Shop. This assessment has brought to light a significant increase in costs affecting all areas of our activities, much like the experiences faced by many other businesses and charitable organisations. The cost rises encompass all utilities, essential support services, and various charges linked to building repairs and ongoing maintenance. These financial challenges have become a central issue for the continuation of our operations.

Increasing Competition in Marlborough

Another significant factor influencing our position is the considerable growth in competition within Marlborough town centre’s food and events sector. At present, there are at least 28 businesses—including cafés, pubs, and restaurants—providing a wide array of food and drink options to local patrons. Furthermore, many of these venues, along with the Marlborough Town Hall, now regularly host events and activities. The resulting expansion of choice in the area has had a direct effect on demand for our services and the attractiveness of our own offerings. While footfall has generally increased, it is not sufficient nor consistent to generate financial sustainability.

Heritage Group Quinquennial Survey

In January, we engaged a professional Heritage Survey firm to undertake the first Quinquennial Survey in many years. This comprehensive 89-page report is a key step in evaluating the condition of our Grade II* listed building and planning for its future maintenance and preservation. The findings highlight an extensive list of works required, with some needing attention within the next year and others scheduled for completion over a period exceeding five years.

The Current Climate for Raising Funds

Fundraising has become increasingly competitive, whether the focus is on seeking smaller donations or applying for substantial grants and support. In response, the Trust has retained specialised charity consultants to help develop a focused fundraising strategy and to prepare grant applications. We are currently awaiting the outcome of an application for £10,000 to fund further roof repairs, with a decision anticipated in January 2026. Additionally, we applied for £20,000 of further support including core costs ,on the 18^th of December 2025. The decision on this application could take up to 16 weeks.  While we remain hopeful, it is important to realise the number of organisations seeking such funding has grown, and the total amount of available funds has become more limited.

The Decline of Volunteering

Volunteers play a critical role in the success of charitable organisations by fostering community engagement, strengthening the Board of Trustees, and assisting in minimising staffing expenses. Across the country, including Marlborough, there has been a marked decrease in volunteer participation since the onset of the pandemic. This reduction is largely attributed to rising living costs, extended working years, and diminished corporate support.

The Future for St Peter’s Trust and the Cardinal

Considering these ongoing challenges, the Trustees have engaged in discussions to identify practical steps that will reduce our costs and maintain our community services. The decisions arising from these deliberations reflect the necessity for prompt action, while acknowledging that not all outcomes may be welcomed by our members or the wider public.

Actions Commencing No Later Than February 2026

• The building will be open from Thursday to Sunday.  
• Opening hours of both the building and the Cardinal, Thursday through Saturday, will remain the same 10:00 till 16:00
• Sunday hours will be 11:00 till 15:00
• The Cardinal’s menu will be reviewed to balance our food, and drinks offer with our restructured staffing plan.
• The Trustees will review current activities to strengthen income and minimise costs

The Board is creating new initiatives and partnerships to increase community activities and income. As part of this effort, we will consult members, residents, visitors, and local organisations to address changes in Marlborough and the region, ensuring consistent community benefits that respond to local needs.