Parish Council tonight - initial request for funding help

Here is the summary I will present:

Calley Memorial Hall update - Parish Council – 9th February 2009

· Objective continues to be the operation of the Calley Memorial Hall as a Scout Hall and as a village hall. The memorial hall will be brought back into use on a 'not for profit' basis, for Scouts, individuals and groups in Chiseldon.

· Current efforts are based on a least cost and shortest time line to bring the hall into use. Subject to a number of factors, we are working towards a tentative opening date of mid May. This is aggressive and may slip, but is focusing the minds of the Group
· Lease agreement in final draft state (see summary sheet) - with Scout HQ and CSSC committee for consideration
· Trust framework to be established in accordance with Scout policy / procedures
· Local company manpower being available much earlier than plan move Scouts to ask for occupation of the building early – takes place, based on memorandum of understanding (and substantial progress with lease).
· Cleanup, minor repairs and decoration tasks underway
· Donation of 265 litres of paint being used, supplemented by retail purchases
· Furniture for hall sourced via Swindon based charity initiative – objective is to furnish for a very low cost. Example is 83 stackable conference chairs donated from a local hotel (will be available for use when hall is hired out)
· We will furnish the hall for Scout use, conference seating, theatre and community uses
· Grants being sought for disabled toilet, shower and ramp
· Scout group has committed to spending £400 on cleanup, minor repairs and decoration, we recognise significant funds are now required to carry out the following works:
o Establish new electrical supply
o Establish new gas supply
o Implement a compliant electrical system and fire alarm
o Install gas fired boiler and fit to current pipe work
o Repair guttering and boards
· The Scout Group requests access to and use of Parish Council funds (set aside for the hall) to enable execution of these works. This is an initial request and we understand the PC will require time to reach agreement. We expect to operate a release protocol, to protect public funds
· We would expect to make further requests to the Trustees of the Village Hall fund
· Expressions of provisional interest to use the hall have been received from members of the following groups:
o All Scout sections, Rainbows, Chiseldon Theatre group,
o Brownies, private hire for functions, weight watchers, keep fit
· Day to day updates and some images are posted to http://chiseldonhall.blogspot.com/