Henley Memorial Hall were successful in their application for £42,500 for entrance hall improvements.
The multi-purpose memorial hall was built in 1908 and has been managed by Henley Memorial Trust since 1947. It is a well-loved centre used by a range of groups providing activities such as badminton, dance classes, cultural gatherings, arts and drama performances, health screening events and film showings, as well as one-off events and parties.
The current entrance to the hall includes failing 1960s single-glazed units and heavy, outdated, manual doors. By replacing these with modern, automated doors, the Hall can be more accessible to those who may struggle to open the doors, and also improve the energy efficiency of the Hall. They will also be installing a new key fob system, to improve access arrangements, and reduce reliance on volunteers, and a CCTV system to improve safety and security at the Hall.
Ian Smedley, Chairman of the Memorial Hall Management Committee, said:
"This grant is a tremendous boost for everyone who loves and uses the Hall. It allows us to honour our building's history by ensuring it remains completely welcoming, inclusive, and accessible to the entire community. It also allows us to further our commitment to a greener, more sustainable future for the hall and we can't wait to see these improvements come to life."
The works are due to start later this year, so watch this space...
In Memory
Henley Memorial Hall is a direct result of the community's desire to create a 'living memorial' following the Second World War. But it's history precedes this. Originally proposed in 1907 and opened as a Public Hall and Rifle Range in 1908, this building has been the cornerstone of the local area for nearly 120 years. During the Great War, it served as a vital VAD (Voluntary Aid Detachment) hospital where 1,576 patients were treated, and during the Second World War the building hosted "Wings for Victory" and "Salute a Soldier" - campaigns to support National Savings.
In 1946, a "War Memorial Fund" was established through individual donations and town savings, to purchase the building for the people of the town. It was officially renamed "The Memorial Hall" in Autumn 1946 and was one of the first assets of Henley Memorial Trust, established the following year.
