RedfordVillageHall.co.uk has served the widely dispersed community of Redford for some 60 years. To ensure that the hall continues to be fit-for-purpose in a changing society, an ambitious programme of refurbishment was planned. The work was divided into 3 phases, to enable the hall to be out of action for as little time as possible. Phase 1, a new roof, replacement windows, thermal insulation and internal redecoration, cost £82,000. Phase 2 consisted of external timber recladding, a porch and valuable storage area. Costing £22,850, this work was completed in 2017. The final phase project is estimated to cost £10,920. The kitchen, which is inadequate for some of the larger events that are now held, will be rewired and redesigned to provide a better working space including newly plastered and tiled walls, more storage for equipment, updated appliances and better working surface areas. The floor covering will also be upgraded, along with that of the entrance hall and the toilets.

What we'll deliver:

• • Replace the existing fitted kitchen to improve the facility and enable more diverse community events.
• • Re-wire the kitchen
• • Replace floor covering in kitchen and toilets
• • Provide flat-door storage cabinets.
• • Compliance with modern building regulations.
• • Enable overfunding costs that will be spent on new fabric window blinds for the community building.

Why it's a great idea:

These planned upgrades and will make this community building much more welcoming, and will ensure that it continues to be used in the years to come. We are finding that the hall is already being used more regularly – now that it is warmer and brighter. The Parish Council holds all of its’ public meetings in the hall. The building is also used as a polling station and has been used for any number of public meetings. Community fitness groups use it regularly, as do U3A groups and Charity meetings. Community events sit well with private birthday parties for all ages, even wedding receptions. These events are the life-blood of the hall, which was built by the community 6o years ago. We recognise the importance of moving with the current public demands and having a facility equipped for future needs.

Steps to get it done:

• • Obtain final cost estimates for project work before 20th February 2019.
• • Award all sub-contractor work before the end of February.
• • Work to commence 8th April, after the weekend market.
• • Work to be completed before event held on 4th May.
• • Project to be completed within time window and within budget.

Redford Village Hall is a registered charity. All financial accounts are available on the website. The building is located north of Midhurst and Chichester, in a very rural area within the designated South Downs National Park. This small Hall is versatile, benefitting hundreds of people, from community events in the immediate area to functions such as the monthly indoor market that are attended by visitors from a distance. Recreational events attract and consolidate the wider community from outlying areas. There has been an annual Christmas party and continuing live music evenings.