UPDATE: Renovation project to begin this summer!
As of April 12th, we have reached a fundraising target of £25,000 so we now meet Greenham Trust’s grant offer of another £25,000 to match it. Combined with what we’d already had in the development account, plus grants from the Englefield Trust (£5,000), the Bradfield Parish Council CIL fund (£50,000) and a Levelling Up grant from WBC (£18,000), we will have at least £197,000 to start the renovation project this summer. All in all, thanks to the generosity of supporters, we have raised enough to go ahead with Phase 1 this summer and even contemplate starting on Phase 2.
Phase 1 will deliver a new roof and ceiling (replacing the current asbestos sheeting); solar panels and battery storage; a new heating and cooling system; an electrical rewiring of the hall and insulation of the main hall. We can all look forward to a warm and cosy hall in the winter and a cool hall in summer!
As a reminder, the objective of the project is to prevent the loss of the village hall, which is a valuable community asset. The income generated by rental of the hall no longer covers the operating costs of the village hall, due to a significant rise in the cost of energy.
Future phases will improve the hall’s facilities and play areas. The overall vision is to refresh the whole site including the children’s play area and MUGA. Alongside the village shop and post office, the hall is the hub of the community hosting diverse groups that include WI, Coffee Mornings, Gardening Club, Support Groups and various local events. The playground is well used by the local community.
Improving the condition of the hall itself will ensure this valuable asset is not lost. The car park is widely used as a drop off point for the local primary school and is a terminus for the community bus. The hall is also the location for a defibrillator.
Jan 2025: Appeal to raise £25K to match Greenham Trust’s grant
Dec 2024: Public Consultation Nov 28th 2024