The New Hall

Work began on the New Hall on 2nd, May, 1982 and building has been completed in just over one year. The Permanent work force was recruited under the Action on Community Employment Scheme and other work has been carried out by specialist sub-contractors, many of whom were parishioners. In addition, some work has been done by parishioners on a voluntary basis.

The Building

The building was designed by Messrs. Diamond, Redfern and Anderson and special consideration was given to the needs of parish orginisations. The main area is 1,500 square feet with a modern synthetic 'gym floor' finish, and has been designed to give maximum amount of wear for a minimum of maintainence. Ample storgage has been provided for equipment and changing accommodation has also has also been included. These features will enable the full floor area to be in use at all times.

Additional accommodation includes a Vestry room which can be used for Vestry meetings and meetings of other committees. This room has been very comfortably furnished. A new Parish Office with purpose-built storage has been provided to replace the present one in the Parochial Hall.

A feature of the building is the way in which it has been linked to the existing Den. This will enable the accommodation there to be fully utilised. The Den kitchen has been modernised with the aid of a grant from the South Eastern Education and Library Board and a hatch has been installed between the kitchen and the adjoining room.

The exterior of the building blends in well with the other existing buildings. The exterior finish is pebble dashed and the discriminating use of grey tiling on vertical walls and faschia gives a most pleasing effect.

The Cost

The approximate cost of the new hall is £65,000. This compares very favourably with the architect's estimate of £95,000. Substantial savings were made as a result of the Action on Community Employment Scheme, competitive purchasing and sub-contract tendering, and the use of voluntary labour of parishioners.

Of this figure of £65,000, just over £40,000 has been raised by the New Hall Fund. The balance will have to be raised over the next five years and the Select Vestry are confidant that the enthusiasm and generosity which have characterised this venture in faith will be maintained until the balance is met.

Pictorial Progress
of the New Hall

May, 1982

July, 1982

October, 1982

March, 1983

Gifts

A number of gifts for the new hall will be Dedicated by the Bishop on Wednesday, 8th. June.

• Chairs for the Vestry Room presented by Mrs. Rosemary Jess in memory of her husband Hans.
• Chairman's Chair for the Vestry Room presented by 1st. 'B' Comber Brownies.
• Table for the Vestry Room presented by Enler Cub Pack.
• Clock for the Vestry Room presented by Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Graham.
• Cross and Clock for the entrance lobby presented by an anonymous donor.
• Desk for the Parish Office presented by Mr. and Mrs. Derek Steen.
• Office Chair presented by the Junior Beavers.

Other equipment for the Hall was purchased with the aid of a grant from the South eastern Education and Library Board.

And Just for Old Times Sake ...
A Photo of the Old Hall