A village hall in County Durham that nearly closed two years ago could soon get a £200,000 makeover to secure its future for generations.
Eggleston Village Hall was left facing an uncertain future in 2024 following the death of long-serving chairman and treasurer Dave Smith.
Only three committee members remained, and the group had not met since before the Covid pandemic.
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
But worried residents stepped in to save the community facility.
Susanne Herbert, one of the hall's trustees, organised a public meeting and helped form a new committee, giving the venue a lifeline.
Now, plans are being developed for a major programme of improvements after a survey identified a range of issues across the building.
Chairman David Hutchinson said much of the hall was no longer fit for purpose after 30 years of little investment.
David Hutchinson Chairman and Elaine Lockyer Secretary of Eggleston Village Hall, (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
He said: "We held two or three meetings and then conducted a survey and found that a lot of the hall wasn't fit for purpose.
"A number of things like the kitchen and the bathroom need fixing and the hall is on two different levels and for access that needs to change.
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
"The main roof also needs work and the entrance needs to be made more disabled-friendly.
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
"We want to put in a nice new kitchen, make the hall level and sort the toilets."
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
The committee aims to raise about £200,000, with several grants and donations already secured.
A National Lottery grant will fund solar panels expected to cut the hall’s energy bills.
Councillor Richard Bell has pledged £3,000, while the Bernard Sunley Foundation has given £5,000.
The Eggleston Carnival Committee has pledged a further £2,000.
Mr Hutchinson said the committee was considering further grant applications.
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The hall remains a busy community hub, hosting yoga, art classes and parish council meetings.
Mr Hutchinson said: "It's an important part of the community.
"There's all sorts going on."