An update on St. Michaels village hall refurbishment —September 2020

It seems quite a while now, when in 2017 we began applications for the lottery grant funds and plans for the refurbishment of the village hall. the footings and groundwork began on 20th July this year and whilst waiting the setting of the concrete, bricks and long awaited materials began to appear. (Another strange sign of our times.)

It was good to hold a coffee morning in July and many thanks for those who worked hard to make it possible and to all those who attended. If anything it helped prove we could re-open with all the relevant signage, risk assessments, sanitisers, perspex and exit and entrances, not to mention handling money.

The committee have met 4 times since lockdown, the building  sub committee meet almost weekly both on and off site, there have been  many issues to discuss. The village hall, kitchen, bar and cupboards have been cleaned thoroughly and regular checks on ventilation, flushing water and toilets in case of legionnaires have been carried out.

One week was spent visiting the college, before it totally closed down. We were there daily at the invitation of college administrator to view remaining kitchen and college items. We had previously purchased an Epson projector from them but at the end of their closure we were very fortunate to have over 50 fold up chairs, tables, lighting, screen, excellent storage racking and exceptional kitchen serving dishes, pans and storage. There was staging but we suggested the church take responsibility for this.

We hope the building plans continue well in such capable hands of Ian Taylor, the builder and Eric Hudson, the architect. It will be good to see its progress and in the meantime we are planning final stages for completion and towards re-opening ,this could be November! Long haul! We hope as many regular hirers will return and others will think of new uses as well as many community events as always has, many good memories I’m sure you will agree.

Changing times, existing times are always ready to shock and surprise us. Let us know your thoughts, suggestions, they are all valuable!

Our most recent update is that now we have arranged all those final niceties of completing a building or room! The decorating, flooring, windows and coverings, sanitary ware, colour schemes and automatic doors and easy access entrances and exits are now in final stages.
Winter may well come early this year following such a brilliant year of good weather. So the final stages of roofing are vital as soon as possible.

We propose re-opening the village hall with a “light festival”-seasonal and appropriate with the current situation surrounding us! We will inform you of more information re this event, 12th /13th December, when an outside visit of lighted symbols from an advent calendar idea can be seen ,ending in and around the village hall. There will be background carls heard, handbell ringing, Christmas stalls and crafts as well as kiosks of seasonal food and drink with festive cheer.

We also propose starting a Friday evening pub night for a couple of hours each week as well as the monthly coffee mornings. We also plan a new years day walk followed by a bring and share lunch in the village hall.

Our regular meetings and talks with community first plus information from Acre have updated us regularly with covid19 precautions ,and regulations, the hall will be well prepared and organised for forthcoming events. Most of all we look forward to seeing you and welcoming you all back with old and new activities and events and start to enjoy and encompass our new village hall in new times!

Best regards

Ros Plested (Chair of v. Hall)