Following a £63,625 funding boost, a Norwich village hub is now open for the public to use for social activities, celebrations or clubs.
The Tarmac Landfill Communities Fund grant has seen Hainford Village Hall carry out an extensive, two-year renovation project.
Both the building and surrounding field required significant renovation, with the funding put towards a new heating and hot water system, kitchen and hearing loop. In a bid to improve the facilities for community use, the grant also facilitated the transformation of the outdoor area – seeing a children’s play park, sports facilities and a landscaped garden now in place.
Carolyn Atherton, Hainford Village Hall trustee, said: “Our aim was to breathe new life into the hall and field by creating a plan we could be proud of, as we look to the future as an accessible hub in our friendly and supportive community.”
The village hall serves as a central gathering place for everything from folk dancing and yoga, to ukulele classes and regular games afternoons.
Carolyn added: “Our field, which was grossly underused, is now an exciting place to be, with children’s play area, table tennis table, football goals, basketball goal and plenty of rainbow benches on which to rest. All this in addition to a new garden area in which the community can view the changing seasons, watch the development and growth of the carefully selected native species in a safe, healthy, green space.
“Thanks to the Tarmac Landfill Communities Fund grant, our project has exceeded our expectations and has been extremely well received by members of our community.”
Graham Hudson, multi-unit manager at Tarmac’s nearby Stanninghall Quarry, said: “What a transformation! It’s great to see Hainford Village Hall now such a revitalised and welcoming community hub. We’re proud to have been able to support the renovation project through the Tarmac Landfill Communities Fund and hope local residents of all ages enjoy the new and improved space.”
Through the Tarmac Landfill Communities Fund, Tarmac donates around £1 million each year to community projects UK wide. The fund is open to applicants who meet the criteria for projects delivering community benefit. For more information, visit www.entrust.org.uk or email [email protected]
