The Trustees of the Village Hall have raised funds of £87,300 from various grant sources. We would not be able to undertake a project of this magnitude, even with the grants received, without the additional fund raising from local societies, clubs, sponsored hall events and local individuals.
The grants have been awarded for the improvement of basic facilities – broadband and cctv, kitchen facility enhancements and the provision of an energy efficient heating and water system to include solar panels and associated insulation. The heating and kitchen exterior door lock will be linked to the hall booking system so that a booking specific code will allow access and the heating will be turned on and off specifically for booking times.
To date a Rangemaster commercial oven has been installed and when the oil boiler is decommissioned in the New Year a fridge freezer will be installed in the boiler cupboard off the kitchen.
Radiators will be replaced with infra-red panels throughout deemed to be the most efficient aiming to warm people and surfaces rather than the fabric of the building. Plans are being developed for solar panels and associated batteries to be installed before Christmas with the aim to commission these early in the New Year with the updating of the electrical system, new lighting throughout.
Both halls will be insulated – the main hall being closed for use for at least the month of February to complete this aspect of the project and for the installation of new lighting and Infra-red panels and decommissioning of radiators. We will be looking to replace some sanitaryware in each of the toilets and individual water heaters.
In the Club Room or small hall a “Fire and Ice” unit will be installed initially providing infra-red heating and the benefits of air conditioning in warmer months via a heat pump/aircon unit. Precise timings for each element of this project are still to be confirmed but currently we are looking for:
– The small hall/toilets/kitchen to be available during most of the project recognising there will be a few days closure whilst works are being undertaken. Bookers will be kept advised of closure timings.
– The main hall will be closed for at least the month of February to undertake the works outlined.
Much of the work will be undertaken by contractors but there will be a request for volunteers to assist with insulation of the loft above the Club Room, kitchen and toilets and redecoration of the public areas once the major works have been completed.