Alan Glister, Chair of Scarning Village Hall Trust Report delivered the following report at the recent Annual Parish Meeting –
“The Trust is pleased to report that we have successfully come out of the post pandemic period and Village Hall bookings have returned to normal levels. The gradual and mindful re-opening of the Hall during the past 12 months has seen the safe return of regular bookings and some exciting new and innovative uses by residents and businesses. These bookings provide social, sporting, and often educational and informative experiences for those attending, and play an important role in the Scarning and wider community. The Trust remains conscious of all factors in maintaining the Hall to a high standard, to the benefit of all Hall users, and ensuring the Hall remains accessible for all.
After a seven year hold on increasing Village Hall hire fees, during the latter part of 2022, Trustees reviewed the hire fees with other local venues and facilities. New hire fees, with the introduction of Business Use and Scarning Resident bandings, were introduced in November 2022.
Maintenance of the Village Hall remains an important part of the Trust’s work and this year we have carried out essential work and upgrades. A new sound system, new oil boiler and a new electrical distribution board have been installed at the Hall. The new boiler at the Village Hall is very efficient and will be a great benefit with rising bills during the Energy Crisis, something which is currently being faced by us all.
In early 2023 the Trust evaluated the responses from the Car Park Survey carried out during 2022 and reported these findings back to the Parish Council. From the responses received 84% agreed that improvements are required to the car park. The Trust therefore remains very committed to making improvements to the car parking facilities, and recognises that the project would encourage and improve the future use of all neighbouring facilities. Improvements would also significantly increase the road safety of all visitors, neighbouring residents and passing traffic, as reflected in the survey results. Costings on this project are currently being sought and assessed.
During June 2022 the Hall was adorned with Union Jack bunting and posters for our late Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations and provided a great venue for a Cream Tea in the sun filled garden and an art exhibition by Scarning Art Club. A display of artwork by pupils of Scarning Village School and historic photos of the village also took place in the Church. The event was well attended with much positive feedback received. A special thank you to all involved in this historic event. The Hall will once again be decorated in May to celebrate the next important event of the British Monarchy; The Coronation of King Charles III.”
– Alan Glister
