11:47am Wednesday 16th September 2009
No doubt we all know that the proposed new Resource Centre is in jeopardy now that funding has been withdrawn largely due to the current economic climate but did you know that we are in danger of losing the existing Community Hall too?
I know it isn’t the prettiest building to look at and tucked away as it is, it tends to be overlooked by everyone.
Whatever impression it gives from the outside, inside it is smart and inviting.
Art classes, tai chi, bingo, kid’s clubs, craft clubs and social groups are just a few of the uses it’s been put to over the years.
It can also be used for wedding receptions and parties, equipped as it is with a stage, sound system and kitchen. There is also internet access and facilities for showing films.
In all, a very useful but little used amenity.
Of late, bookings have fallen and the hall is no longer being used to it’s full potential.
This has drastically reduced it’s income at a time when maintenance costs are escalating.
But the biggest problem at the moment is that there are fewer and fewer people prepared to help keep it running.
It is run by the Littlemoor Community Action Group (LCAG) which also oversees it’s maintenance, takes bookings and ensure it is kept up to standard.
But now the LCAG is in crisis itself.
Lack of local interest has meant that the committee is much reduced in numbers.
On the 26th of this month they will be holding what could be their last Annual General Meeting.
The current treasurer, John Ellis is giving up the post because of mounting pressures from his job and chairman Malcolm Beeson is retiring from his post although he will continue to support the new committee and press the case for the new resource centre.
If no one comes forward to fill the vacant officer and committee posts the LCAG will have no choice but consider winding up.
If this happens then the hall will have to be handed to Weymouth and Portland council who own the site and will, in all probability, use the land for more housing.
And once the hall is gone, it is unlikely that it will be replaced.
So this is an appeal for anyone who cares about their community to seriously consider standing on the next committee so that the good work can continue.
If you have an hour or so a month to spare then please think about joining.
If you don’t fancy committee work maybe you have some time to spare to help out in other ways? Maintenance of the building is costly so maybe there’s someone in the community who would be willing to volunteer their expertise and services?
As the saying goes, every little helps.
It is in fact being held at the community hall on the 26th September at 4.30pm and not the 19th as previously stated.
It will be preceded by a film show and a tea break, starting at 2pm.
Everyone over 18 and living or working between Gould’s Garden Centre and the Upwey railway bridge are members and invited to attend.
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