Hillstownvillagehall.com/future-plans
A New
Village Hall for Hillstown
We are planning a new Village Hall for Hillstown.
The old hall has served us well over many years but sadly the wooden structure is not financially viable to maintain to meet new government targets.
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In the meantime, it's business as usual and the hall will continue to be maintained with adherence to all health, safety, and fire regulations, ensuring a safe environment for all our users.
11th July 2024
In 2024, a Government Strategic Energy Report was undertaken on Hillstown Village Hall.
Although several updates have been carried out on the building over the past 5 years, the main fabric of the building is predominantly wooden, with very little or no insulation in parts. ​
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Conclusion.
The report concluded the building requires extensive work to the fabric of the building itself to achieve the EPC-C rating, to remain open after April 2027.
Recommended action required:
Retrofitting external insulation to the building’s envelope, including walls, floor and roof.
Replacement of the two Gas boilers to electric air systems.​
11 February 2025
Bolsover District Council
Carbon Management Workshops
We have participated in Carbon Management Workshops with Nottingham Trent University, enabling us to evaluate the savings potential at the Village Hall.
Key areas assessed for managing carbon usage:
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Reducing operational costs
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Improving energy efficiency
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Reducing waste
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Demonstrating environmental responsibility
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Complying with environmental legislation
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Enhancing competitiveness in tenders
This assessment was crucial in deciding whether to retrofit or replace the main building.
17th February 2025
The Trustee Meeting held on 17th February 2025 discussed the current condition of the building and the extensive work required to bring it up to the necessary high specifications.
Retrofitting
After careful consideration, we concluded that the financial implications of an entire retrofit required to bring it up to the standard required would not be cost-effective and could still require a substantial amount of ongoing maintenance.
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Fit for Purpose.
Our informed decision was to look at a new replacement fit-for-purpose building, that would meet the growing needs of the local community and meet the Net Zero Government targets.
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'Net Zero Fund'
It was decided to establish a 'Net Zero Fund' to help towards a replacement building with a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative. To kickstart this important journey, we have allocated an initial £10,000 to support our vision of a greener future.
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An Ambitious Undertaking.
Constructing a replacement hall is a huge and ambitious undertaking; however, with the support of the local community, it can be realised.​
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In the upcoming months, we will evaluate all possible options, engaging in consultations with the community and relevant authorities to examine the feasibility of the project.
Supporting Information
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The aim is to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, making buildings more sustainable and environmentally friendly. If a building cannot meet the required EPC rating, failure to comply could result in penalties or closure.
Gov.uk
Village and community halls are a staple in rural communities, providing a warm and welcoming space for everyone to come together. However, the age, construction and diversity of buildings provides a challenge when considering the installation of energy saving measures.
Substantial investments and support are needed to address the challenges and future-proof the viability of these buildings or they will be lost.
Background.
Hillstown Miners Welfare Trust manage the site and is a registered charity, overseen by CISWO and the Charity Commission.
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Financial Structure
Hillstown Village Hall operates as a financially independent charity, generating its income through room, field hire and grants. It does not receive financial support from Bolsover or Scarcliffe Parish Council.
Support for the Community
Income from the Village Hall is used to provide recreation and sports services for the Hillstown and Bolsover area.
Asset Management
The organisation is responsible for managing its assets prudently to ensure the long-term sustainability of the facilities.