In December 2018, the village Social Club committee took the difficult decision to cease trading because the club was no longer sustainable.
As the owner of the building, the Englefield Estate is committed to continuing to provide a facility for the community which caters for all ages and a wide variety of interests.
In January 2019 we sent a questionnaire to all residents of the Parish asking what you would like to see from a new community space. We also invited organisations and clubs who previously used the social club as a venue for events and meetings to submit their thoughts too.
The feedback showed a clear demand for uses such as Parish Council meetings, children’s parties, fitness sessions, community gatherings and a venue for other interest groups.
In May 2019 we shared architect designs for the renovation of the original Victorian building and the removal of later extensions, to create a flexible space with high quality soundproofed movable internal walls, a fitted kitchen and modern WCs, including facilities for people with a disability and also for baby changing.
The proposals allow for the Victorian building to be restored to its former glory by removing modern ceilings to reveal the original full height roof structure.
Feedback from the community indicated that there was very strong support in the parish for these proposals and a number of people said they would be willing to assist with the long-term management of the facility.
The proposals were granted planning permission in December 2019 and work is now under way.
