A Suffolk scout and guide group is looking to raise £1.5 million for a new headquarters because its current home is 'too small' and needs substantial investment to be modernised.

Framlingham Scouts and Guides has been based at the repurposed 'Old Fire Station' in Badingham Road since the 1980s, but the building is now 70 years old and needs a substantial overhaul with its structure and improvements to its facilities.

The kitchen, toilets, electrical and heating systems all need replacing, double glazing needs to be installed and the interior remodelled with external rendering and roof repairs.

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However, even with these changes- and the significant financial outlay involved- there are other issues with the present premises that would need to be resolved, including a lack of space to expand to accommodate the troop's growing membership and a lack of outdoor space.

There are also safety issues through increased traffic associated with new developments in the town and inadequate parking and drop-off areas which make it difficult to separate pedestrians and vehicles.

So the 200-strong organisation is looking to move to a new site within the town and buy 1.5 acres of land close to existing community facilities and build an HQ to meet current and future needs.

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The new premises will provide one large hall with a capacity for more than 200 people, a secondary hall, allowing two units to meet at the same time and a smaller, quiet room.

Facilities would also include a modern and spacious kitchen, improved toilets and showers and ample storage.  

The new HQ will meet modern standards for accessibility, safety, and sustainability. 

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A spokesperson for the troop said: "The overall aim of this project is to secure the future of Framlingham Scouts’ and Guides’ Headquarters by relocating our existing headquarters to a new site in a modern, sustainable and safe building designed to provide the facilities and space we need as our town grows and demand for our offer increases across the large rural area we serve.

"The vision is to take scouting and guiding to the next level in Framlingham, through the relocation of our headquarters building, to provide a strong foundation for the future of our community organisations."

To raise money for the new HQ, the troop has arranged a Fire and Feast Tipi on Saturday, October 14, providing a three course meal.

READ MORE: Suffolk news