Broughton-in-Furness achieved their aim to extend and modernise their seventy three year old hall with new first class disabled facilities. They hoped that this would increase their income and, with the appointment of a development manager, would be a catalyst for rural and village regeneration.
Regeneration has already begun. A new butchers shop has opened in the village, the Methodist Chapel and Mountain Centre have been refurbished and modernised and the bakery now has a new café. Added to this, a country market is now held once a month in the hall.
A diverse mix of local organisations were involved and a local architect was recruited, plus many other members of the local community. They all gave their time and expertise together with a great deal of commitment and hard work.
Following the initial project, the Parish council has commissioned a survey to assess local needs and aspirations, under the Countryside Agency's Vital Villages Programme. A Parish Plan has been drawn up and was launched in early September 2002. The purchase of land for a much needed car park is currently under negotiation and hopefully work will soon start on this important new project.
A
mountain festival was organised and there is now an annual Broughton jazz
festival. The refurbished Victory Hall has started to host touring theatre
companies and an arts programme is being organised.
In 2002 Broughton was entered as the Cumbria representative for the National Calor Village of the Year competition. They won the National Business Category Award. What Broughton-in-Furness, a small market town with under a thousand inhabitants has achieved is quite remarkable, and is an example of what can happen with the will, commitment and hard work of a small but vibrant community.
Regeneration of a community through the village hall
Don't push people too hard-aim to rouse interest first, then be prepared for long, steady progression.
You need an inspired vision of what you want to achieve.
The involvement of professional advisers is essential.
Things take a long time-we started in 1996 and still haven't finished.
Maintain the momentum
by making sure that there is always a new stage about to be completed,
or a new initiative about to be launched.
Hadfield Trust
Duchy of Lancaster Benevolent Fund
Frieda Scott Trust
Barclays
Co-ordination Group Publications
Glaxo
Alchemy Trust
Broughton and District Chamber of Trade
Duddon Parish Council
21st Century Halls for England
Richard Weeks
The Cottage, New St, Broughton in Furness, Cumbria
Telephone: 01229 716103