Barrow Hill Memorial Hall has officially reopened following a major refurbishment that has created a modern community hub for the village.
The refurbished hall was officially reopened on Saturday 22 August at a community event. It now features a community pantry, community bar and café, family hub, physical activity space and a health hub. The facilities provide village residents with access to a variety of support services and social spaces.
History of the building
The hall was originally built as a workmen's hall in 1863. Charles Paxton Markham donated the building to the community as a war memorial in the 1920s, and a trust has been managing it since then.
Funding and refurbishment
The refurbishment has been led by Barrow Hill Community Trust with funding from the Staveley Town Deal and East Midlands Combined County Authority. Funding through the Staveley Town Deal was used to create the new health hub and social space, as well as upgrades to the building's roof, heating system and electrical system.
The East Midlands Combined County Authority provided funding for the family hub and physical activity space, and has also provided match funding to support further funding bids to refurbish the first floor.
Reactions
Simon Redding, chairperson of Barrow Hill Community Trust CIO, said: "It is wonderful to see the first phase of the Memorial Hall refurbishment finished, with local people enjoying the facilities and benefiting from the new services on offer. As a community-led charity, we will continue to develop these services hand in hand with local people - who are at the heart of all that we do."
Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: "The Trust have created a fantastic hub that will make a real difference in the community. This refurbishment will give the building a new lease of life and provide an inviting space where everyone in the community can access a wide range of services."
Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward said: "Barrow Hill Memorial Hall is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when communities have the investment they need to shape their own future. This refurbishment has breathed new life into an important local building, creating a welcoming space where people can meet, stay active, access support, and build connections."
