A community hub which has been in its present home for more than 80 years has been improved thanks to council cash.
Romanby Women’s Institute (WI) has been in existence since 1928 offering a wide range of activities and companionship to women in Romanby and Northallerton.
In addition, its building is used as a base for community groups such as craft clubs, exercise classes, flower arranging, deaf club, baby sensory group and community coffee mornings.
A consultation with its users and potential new users revealed that the comfort and warmth of the hall was unsatisfactory, and its general appearance and décor needed attention.
New windows and doors have been replaced using £3,000 from Hambleton District Council’s Making a Difference Fund and match funding has allowed a new heating system to be installed and the hall redecorated.
Margaret Whitehead, chair of Romanby WI said: “We hope the improved facilities will attract more people to attend events at the hall when it is safe to do so, including the return of our chatty café which we started last year to alleviate isolation and loneliness.
“The WI are trying to help whatever community groups we can in these difficult times whilst observing best practice and following guidelines, we have managed to let a few small groups use the hall.
“As Romanby does not have a village hall, the WI hall is an important keystone of our community, ensuring Romanby is a special place to live.”
Councillor Kevin Hardisty, Ward Member for Romanby supported the application for the grant.
- Cash for the Making a Difference scheme comes from ongoing cost savings that councillors are reinvesting into the local community. Each scheme must meet one of the council’s key priorities – driving economic vitality, enhancing health and wellbeing, caring for the environment and providing a special place to live. And each must show that there is community involvement and represents value for money.
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