Future of the Public Hall
The Public Hall on the High Street was given to the Parish in 1896 and since that time has been a venue for many village societies and activities. However today, it is only regularly used by the Scouts, Beavers and Cubs and they do not feel it is suitable for their future needs.
So, there is a building which is expensive to maintain and in need of significant improvement. The Lead Councillor for Halls has recommended that we sell it and use the proceeds to help provide a more modern facility for multi-use in a better location.
But it is your building. It was given to the residents. The Parish Council simply maintain it from the taxes you pay, so it is your decision what we do.
Selling Pros and Cons
The arguments for selling are:
- Even if empty, the building will cost over £2,000 per year to maintain
- If occupied, significant funds will be needed for repairs and improvements
- The interior layout is poor with no disabled access to the upper floor
- It is situated on a busy road with no car park
- It has very little outside space
The arguments against are:
- It has been there a long time and has historic interest
- The frontage is a distinctive feature in the High Street
The Decision is Yours
The Parish Council will be trying to gather as many views as possible to enable a decision to be made before the end of the year. You can make your views known by:
- email to the Parish Clerk at clerk@willinghamparishcouncil.gov.uk
- by letter
- a visit to the Parish Office, West Fen Road
- on 01954 261027
There will be suggestion boxes around the village at the Library, the Primary School, the Medical Centre, the Post Office, the Council Office and the Ploughman Hall in which you can post pre-printed cards with your preference. You can also come and make comments at any of our Parish Council meetings, the next full council meeting is in the Octagon at 7.30 pm on Wednesday 5th October.
CLOSING DATE FOR COMMENTS IS FRIDAY 30TH DECEMBER 2022
Drop-in Sessions and Meetings
We shall be holding two drop-in sessions and two public meetings at which you can make your views known and recorded.
- Drop-in session at the Public Hall to view the building:
Saturday 15 October: 10 – 11.30am - Public Meeting at the Ploughman Hall for questions and answers:
15 October: 2.30 – 4pm - Drop-in session at the Public Hall to view the building:
Tuesday 18 October: 7 – 8.30pm - Public Meeting at the Ploughman Hall for questions and answers:
19 October: 7.30 – 9pm
Photos
