Community venue reopens after receiving grant
St James Hall complete with new large apex window
St James Hall, Bridgnorth has been awarded £13,000 as a result of their successful application to the Community Asset Pilot Grant Scheme. This pilot grant scheme, administered through Shropshire Council, is Government funded from the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), and aims to provide direct business grants and wider business support as part of the recovery from the pandemic.
This funding has allowed the removal of the large single glazed apex window which covers most of the east end of the hall, and replacement with new modern double glazed window panels. This has both increased the longevity of the community building and enhanced its energy profile through better insulation.
St James Hall sits at the heart of the Grove Estate and is a greatly used community resource, both as a place of worship and for the hosting of community events. The impact of the pandemic on the hall was overwhelming, as it had no significant income for 18 months at a time when it needed to cover a number of regular costs for services and routine maintenance.
Cecilia Motley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for communities, culture, leisure and tourism, and transport, said:-
It is wonderful news that St James Hall has been successful with the Community Asset Pilot Grant Scheme. The venue is a hub of activity and it is great to see the hall thriving for the community to enjoy.
The work completed at the hall means it can now be used again by a large range of community groups throughout the week such as Jiggy Wrigglers, Stageworkz, a martial arts group, Yoga and Fitness and Csaba’s Style Dance classes.
Kirstie Hurst-Knight, a local Shropshire Councillor for Bridgnorth East and Astley Abbotts, said:
This is excellent news for our community who want to engage with the wide range of activities hosted from St James Hall. Following the difficulties the building and local venues have faced during the pandemic, we can now all look ahead and enjoy meeting and socialising as a community.
St James hall during renovations
St James hall during renovations
St James Hall complete with new large apex window
