Updates:

Charlton Memorial Hall Refurbishment 2009 and Plans for the Future
Supported by with Viridor Waste Management

Why refurbish?
The Hall had become tired and shabby - It is in constant use – by the Playgroup, by village clubs and societies, and every second year by the Pantomime in addition it is available for hire on an ad hoc basis.
Things are wearing out, breaking or in constant need of repairing or replacing.
The heating and lighting is outdated and inefficient.
The maintenance costs are a drain on the slender resources.
The Playgroup is the major user and needs more up-to-date facilities.
The Disabled Access is below current standards.
The original intention was to replace progressively, item by item, but that would have taken years on a hand-to-mouth basis.
It was therefore decided to go for one full refurbishment programme, covering as much as we could from major fund raising.

Charlton Memorial Hall Phased Refurbishment Programme
Because of the need to minimise disruption and work within the constraints of a limited budget, it was decided that the works would take place in two main phases.

Phase 1: Funding & Contractors
Funding
Grants
Northants County Council (Capital Funding)
South Northants District Council
Trust for Oxfordshire’s Environment with Viridor Waste Management
The Maud Elkington Trust
Local
Charlton Memorial Hall
Charlton Playgroup (contribution for Shed)
Charlton Table Tennis Club (contribution for Shed)
Charlton WI (contribution for Cooker)
Charlton Gardening Club (contribution for Fridge)

Main Contractors
Chris Rose & Steve Linnell Builders (Northampton)
County Flooring (Northampton)
Ross Firth Plumbing & Heating (Blisworth)
Gilberts Electrical (Brackley)
Phil Wolfe Kitchen (Charlton)
Mark Brown - Storage Sheds (Charlton)
Charlton Memorial Hall

Phased Refurbishment Programme
Phase 2: 2010 depending on funding. Estimated cost £20,000
Replace rotten soffit boards & guttering
Refurbish storage rooms
Replace ceiling panels; improve insulation
Review electric system
Install ‘Charlton Memorial Hall’ signs on gable ends

And then?
Phase 3: Playground. If and when funds allow. Estimated cost £20,000-£40,000?
The playground area, with swings, slide and benches, with hard-standing as well as grassland, is part of the Memorial Hall property.
This too is very dated and in serious need of updating to meet modern standards. It will be treated as a separate project.
Funds are being applied for, and if awarded, will determine the extent of refurbishment and any new play equipment.

Phase 1: Jul-Aug 2009 cost £60,000 Now completed
Disabled access (ramp, handrail & main doors)
Retaining wall & drainage at rear to secure unstable bank
Improved back access & storage area
New sheds
Repairs to leaking flat roof & replacement skylight
New gas-fired central heating system
New kitchen
Updated toilet facilities
New flooring throughout
Internal decoration