Our Community Projects Officer Matthew Winnington talked with Jonathan Williams, who is a Parish Councillor in Bishop’s Waltham, a Winchester City Councillor for Bishop’s Waltham ward and, since last October, the County Councillor for Bishop’s Waltham division. This division covers an area containing 12 parishes so it includes a lot of community buildings!
Matthew asked Jonathan about his impressions of the value of village halls in the whole area, particularly having recently become the County Councillor for the division. He said the halls and centres vary significantly in size but are unified in being at the heart of their community. He has been struck by the similarities in their mission to provide a hub for their community and the determination of the organisations that manage the buildings (usually a charity but sometimes a parish council) to make them sustainable long into the future. This is in the face of rising costs, particularly for utility bills and maintenance, and it’s certainly emphasised the need for creative thinking! To give just two examples, trustee and volunteer recruitment is a challenge for many community buildings, as is the need to invest in solar panels, insulation measures, and other ways of reducing energy usage.
Jonathan noted how certain activities take place in many of the venues across his patch, in particular warm spaces, pre-schools / nurseries, and foodbanks. He also noted this kind of provision is often a catalyst for local people and businesses to support the venues in various ways. This support is, of course, key to the venues being able to keep their hire charges as low as possible, while still bringing in the income needed to maintain and develop the facilities.
We’d like to thank Jonathan for his insights into the role of community halls in the Bishop’s Waltham division. As Village Halls Week approaches we’re encouraged to hear that these community hubs are held in such high regard, are so well-used and supported by local people, and are recognised by elected representatives as being vital to the life of the community.
Follow this link for support with your village hall or community building
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