Our Major Redevelopment Project
We've Started
Over the past year, the Village Hall Committee has undertaken extensive consultation with residents, user groups, and local architects. This process explored a range of options, including refurbishment, relocation, and newbuild alternatives. Taking into account community feedback, financial constraints, and eligibility for national funding, the most viable and sustainable solution is to redevelop and extend the existing hall. This approach preserves the hall’s central role within the recreation ground while delivering the modern facilities the community urgently needs.
The proposed project will create an 11-metre extension to the southern end of the building, providing a new accessible entrance lobby, a modern kitchen, a flexible meeting room, and essential plant and storage space. These improvements will significantly enhance the hall’s functionality, safety, and long-term sustainability. They will also enable the hall to support a wider range of activities, increase capacity for community groups, and improve the experience for all users, including older residents, families with young children, and people with mobility needs.
Wiltshire Council’s preapplication planning advice confirms that the project is acceptable in principle. The site lies within the settlement boundary, and the extension does not impact the protected playing field.
Project Summary
Shrewton Village Hall is the main community facility for a rural village with limited alternative provision. Built nearly 50 years ago, it is now outdated, inefficient, and increasingly unable to meet the needs of the many groups who rely on it. The hall supports exercise classes, playgroups, markets, social events, and is home to Shrewton United Football Club. It is a vital social and recreational hub.
The Need
Consultation with residents, user groups, and local architects confirmed that the building no longer meets modern standards for accessibility, energy efficiency, or flexible community use. Without investment, the hall risks becoming unfit for purpose, reducing opportunities for social connection, physical activity, and community wellbeing.
The Project
The community has agreed the most viable and sustainable solution is to redevelop and extend the existing hall. The project will deliver:
• An 11-metre extension to the southern end of the building.
• A new accessible entrance lobby.
• A modern, fitforpurpose kitchen.
• A flexible meeting room for clubs, groups, and private hire.
• A plant room and essential storage.
• Upgraded services and improved energy efficiency.
Strategic Fit
Wiltshire Council’s preapplication advice confirms the proposal is acceptable in principle. The project aligns with:
• Wiltshire Core Strategy policies on community facilities and sustainable development.
• The Wiltshire Playing Pitch Strategy, which identifies Shrewton Recreation Ground as a priority site for enhancement.
• Local and national priorities around rural resilience, health and wellbeing, and climateconscious building improvements.
Community Benefits
The redevelopment will:
• Provide a modern, inclusive, accessible space for all ages.
• Support physical and mental wellbeing through sport, exercise, and social activity.
• Strengthen community cohesion and reduce rural isolation.
• Improve long-term sustainability and reduce running costs.
• Secure the future of a valued community asset.
For broader information about housing, social, economic and environmental developments, please see the Shrewton Neighbourhood Plan website.