PARWICH.ORG

Please click here for a printer-friendly version of this newsletter, in PDF format. Printed copies will be posted on village notice boards shortly.

Since the last newsletter circulated in August/September 2009, things have moved apace, and much hard work is being rewarded by our Hall finally taking shape. Information on the build continues to be posted on the notice board adjacent to the Hall outlining detailed progress and plans, and those who have checked on http://www.parwich.org will have been kept up to date with progress through the comprehensive weekly photo diary published.

The estimated completion date is presently mid May with the delay due to the ongoing severe weather we are experiencing. The delay will not increase the overall build cost which remains at the original figure of approximately £695,000. As previously reported, the build is in essence the design approved by the Peak Park Planners and awarded the Big Lottery Fund grant.

The total money raised stands at £708,395, which means that all moneys required for the building costs have been secured by the funding group, and the additional funds can be used for a much improved specification kitchen, staging, new chairs and a keyboard. There are still some bids that we await the outcome of, which, if we are successful will allow us to fund storage trolleys, a moveable bar and outdoor furniture. The Committee has set up a facility to access a loan of £20,000 if necessary, from the Rural Community Buildings Loan Funds because some funding bodies who have pledged funds will not release their funds until some weeks after the costs have been paid (i.e. the loan would be drawn down to support cash flow ONLY and is not required for the overall build cost).

All pre-commencement planning conditions have been satisfied, and there are ongoing discussions with the Peak Park to ensure other planning conditions are agreed at the appropriate time. For example the Peak Park has been instrumental in advising and guiding the Committee on an appropriate landscaping plan, which has been evolving during the build process. Minor design decisions not included in the already approved outline specification, e.g. carpet and blind colours, are being considered after recommendations by the architect, in discussions with the Design Interface Team, who then bring recommendations to the full Committee for discussion and agreement.

There is an open meeting scheduled for 4th March (8 – 9pm venue TBA), to answer any questions arising from this newsletter. Please also note the AGM will be delayed until 27th May after the final completion of the Hall. In the meantime, as always, every member of your Committee is happy to answer any further questions on an individual basis or questions may be answered by reading the minutes in the shop folder.