In a bold initiative to enhance community amenities, the New Forest District Council has commenced an extensive refurbishment project for St George’s Hall in Calshot. The renovation aims to rejuvenate the historic building, transforming it into a modern, multifunctional space for residents.
Erected in the 1910s, St George’s Hall holds significant historical importance as the former RAF chapel for a vital military airfield in Britain. Over the years, it has evolved into a central hub for various community activities, housing a youth club, a community garden project, and a Community Hub complete with a food larder collection.
The forthcoming refurbishment will concentrate on both the interior and exterior of the building, with meticulous attention to conserving its original structure, including the Chaplain’s room adorned with exquisite stained-glass windows. Structural alterations, enhanced acoustic flooring, and a reconfigured kitchen are among the planned improvements to the interior, along with the addition of state-of-the-art cinema facilities.
A key priority of the renovation is energy efficiency. The installation of an air source heat pump for heating and hot water, coupled with additional insulation and photo-voltaic panels, will significantly improve the building’s energy conservation rating from an F to a more favourable B rating.
Furthermore, the surrounding outdoor space will undergo enhancements, including safety measures for the car park and the establishment of a community garden featuring fruit trees and improved accessibility features for individuals with mobility issues. Exciting additions such as a skate ramp, adaptable shelter, goalposts, and a basketball net will also enhance outdoor recreational opportunities.
Throughout the refurbishment period, St George’s Hall will be inaccessible to the public. However, essential services such as the food larder will continue to operate from alternative locations, ensuring minimal disruption to the community.
A spokesperson for the New Forest District Council underscored the significance of St George’s Hall to the local community, highlighting its rich history and value as a vital community asset. They emphasised the importance of the refurbishment in modernising the hall and expanding its capacity to host various events, ranging from cookery classes to film nights.
The eagerly anticipated reopening of St George’s Hall is slated for September 2024, marking a new chapter in its storied history. Upon completion, the hall is poised to serve as an improved and modernised hub for Calshot, catering to the diverse needs and interests of its residents.
As the renovation progresses, anticipation builds within the community for the unveiling of the revitalised St George’s Hall, promising a brighter future for community engagement and cohesion in Calshot.
