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Stone Circle Project

Latest position - Nov 2005 - we have looked at several sites put forward, in some cases it has been access difficulties that has put us off in others that the land owner wanted too much control and suspected it would become a theme park - we are still looking and keen to hear of new proposals. We are considering starting an appeal in 2006 across all traditional craft web sites that will join in, and the two educational websites to create a fund to establish a centre. what do you think?

Introduction

For a few years now a number of our member groups have been between them discussing the idea of creating a new stone circle, or group of circles, that would be able to be used by many traditional witchcraft, Wicca and pagan groups. It would be located out of general sight of public roads but be easily accessible. 

Within the UK over 1,000 stone circles are known of and many more will have been lost or covered over by later religious structures. None of these circles are complete, although a few are in near original condition and in part work still, allowing some understanding as to their use.

Many stone circles have been visited and a variety of experiments undertaken, and in addition a number of experiments done with new temporary structures that function like existing stone circles. The objective being to understand more of how the stone circles originally worked and to allow the new ones to be created as functioning units able to use energy, rather than as just ceremonial markers to the edge of a ceremonial space.

What will it be like

Eventually probably three circles, one large major one, one smaller one very near to it and the third a slight distance away. Originally most stone circles were created in groups of three, although we do not know fully why. 

Initially we will be constructing a single circle, that may become eventually the smaller one next to the large circle. The objective of this first circle is to allow much of what we have learnt to be tested out, the exact size, number of stones or type of stones has still to be agreed.

We may create it within a small clearing within woodland, or we may choose to have a level larger area that allows distant views to be obtained. Some would like water nearby, but we do not want the area containing the circle to flood or to become boggy. The ideal site would also include a field that was suitable for caravans and camping, with at least a supply of water and possibly electricity. The stone circle will not be built in the center of the site and camping allowed around, and we will be avoiding areas that contain power lines and similar.

Geographically it is most likely to be in Somerset, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire or Oxfordshire, and be away from cities, towns and airfields in a place that allows peace and tranquillity.

Who will be able to use it

The objective is to run a calendar that allows some joint celebrations at key times of the year, and we will allow all member organizations to join in and to also within the time frame have private sessions within the rings. At other times throughout the year some specific dates will be reserved, principally two days after each full moon. Beyond this member groups will also be able to reserve some dates, but we will also make sure that we make dates available that are relevant to other groups who are not members to suit their needs. Luckily Wicca favors a slightly different calendar to us, so we will be able to offer the use of the circle to many Wicca groups as well. 

Handfasting and other rites will be able to be carried out and we will maintain a list of people from different traditions who are willing to handle this. There will be some limits on what can be done, and the condition that the site has to be left in. 

The site will also be available for scientific study, as we get to understand more about how it works. 

Individuals who are not a part of the association, or any other of the organizations who choose to use it, may be able to, subject to some safeguards, but we will not be opening it up as public space, and while we may have some days that are introductory days put on jointly by a number of groups for those who are curious, locals etc, it is not intended that we will operate it as a tourist site.

There will be no charge to anyone for using the circle, but we will have the ability to accept donations, which will be used exclusively for further developments on the site, such as some type of shelter, toilet facilities, adding more stones etc.

What will happen next

More experiments with temporary structures are planned including some where these are used in conjunction with old circles. In addition the ongoing studies in hand will continue.

Shortly we shall start looking for a suitable piece of ground for the first circle we wish to build, but we may expect some opposition from Christian fundamentalists and others who do not understand our craft. As we want to avoid protests, vandalism etc, it is possible that we will keep the first phase secret until we have it fully established and working, and have introduced it quietly to local inhabitants. By this means we would hope to avoid fear being created amongst the local population around the site, which would make it difficult to use and keep safe from harm.

Comments, ideas or thoughts of any type are welcome on this or any of our projects.

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