u3a
Shrewsbury

We're moving.

Farewell to Arda:

A Quiet Giant Behind the Scenes

Since 2019, our website has been powered by a unique and quietly brilliant system known as Arda — a custom-built WordPress plugin that did far more than its modest name suggested. While most WordPress sites rely on a patchwork of plugins and core features, Arda was different: it was 90% bespoke, tailored precisely to our needs, and only 10% WordPress underneath. It gave us flexibility, speed, and a sense of control that few platforms could match.

But like many one-of-a-kind creations, Arda came with a caveat: it was deeply tied to the vision and expertise of a single developer. As time passed and the script writer moved on, the system became harder to maintain. With no documentation and increasing incompatibility with evolving web standards, Arda began to show its age.

We owe a great deal to Arda — it served us faithfully for six years, enabling our members to connect, share, and grow together. It was never flashy, but it was ours. And now, as we transition to SiteWorks, the nationally supported platform from the u3a, we do so with gratitude for what Arda gave us and optimism for what lies ahead.

Thank you, Arda. You were a quiet giant, and you’ll be remembered.

You’ll be redirected to our new site in 60 seconds.
If you can't wait that long, click here or click the graphic.

Moving Domains

...and if you want to read the obituary (again), but can't do it before the page swishes you away, then refesh the page and the timer will restart.

Learn, Laugh, Live