Wickham Market village hall receives £500k injection

Wickham Market Village Hall was built in 1952 and has been fighting to meet current regulations.

The hall needed attention for repairs and a new modern layout to reflect the variety of clubs and activities it hosts.

A working group from the parish council and trustees from the village hall have worked to provide feedback and recommendations on the process.

The boost was courtesy of East Suffolk Council's (ESC) community infrastructure levy (CIL), which the developers of new housing have to contribute when estates are built.

In 2015, the village hall committee wanted to use Section 106 funding to help fund a new village hall (Image: Simon Parker) John Horsnell, councillor at Wickham Market Parish Council, which is leading this project, said: “A modernised village hall is seen as a future hub, both for the village and many other neighbouring villages.

"The ESC funding means we are well on our way to creating a modern, sustainable and vibrant space for future generations to enjoy. Hopefully the grant will encourage other funders to support the scheme.”

Sally Noble, ward member from East Suffolk Council, added: “ESC’s award of this grant shows our commitment and belief in this project. The benefits of a modernised village and its future use can reach out to many of our residents near and far.”

The Wickham Gate housing development of 129 homes generated income for the CIL, which in collaboration with Pettistree Parish Council will help fund the delivery of the village hall project.

Kay Yule, East Suffolk Council cabinet member for planning and coastal management, added: “This is what CIL funding is all about; taking the financial contributions of developers in areas of housing growth and putting it to good use – making a difference to the lives of local people.

"In this case, by improving an already well-used village asset requiring modernisation to meet the needs of users.”