Public Hall Extension Proposal

In both the Audlem Parish Plans of 2005 and 2010 the need was established for better sport and recreational facilities for residents. A committee has been set up, working with the Public Hall Management Committee, to try to produce detailed plans and then to start looking for funding. The current plans would provide for the following:

The project is code-named APHEx (Audlem Public Hall Extension).

• ADCA (Audlem and District Community Action) is looking for a venue for the Tuesday Day Club and other activities for older people following the decision to demolish Thornton House.
• Audlem Football Club (and potentially another Football Club) needs changing rooms with shower/toilet facilities.
• The village Youth Club has ceased to function primarily due to lack of premises and the intention is to provide dedicated room(s) for them.
• Audlem 5A Drama Group needs better changing rooms and storage facilities for its productions.
• Audlem Medical Practice have NHS service providers who are increasingly looking for local premises to provide health and clinical services.
• The Parish Council needs a suitable room for its monthly meetings.
• The plan includes allowance for a room which could be used by a club or organisation running a mini-gym.
• There is a need for suitable rooms for U3A (University of the Third Age) and similar educational meetings.

APHEx is therefore an essential and viable project to cater for the elderly, youth, children, sports, health and education. The costs are estimated to be in the region of £500,000-600,000.

Currently we have appointed an Architect to draw up sketch plans agreed by users. We are also in discussion with Cheshire East regarding the transfer of a small parcel of unused land at the back of the existing Public Hall. We have had a preliminary onsite meeting with the Cheshire East planning department who have indicated general approval of the plans. Audlem Parish Council is fully aware and supportive of the project, being represented on the APHEx committee by Cllr Dave Siddorns.

The sketch plans will be used for public briefings and feedback and funding applications.
We are looking for funding from a wide range of sources such as Homes and Community Agency, Right to Build, Lottery, Football Foundation, Youth Funding, Arts Foundations. In addition the beneficiaries of the improved facilities are expected to contribute significant funding.

The pictures show an artist's impression of the extension together with initial floor plans.

Roland Hall
Chairman APHEx

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