Community Hub…

emmam345
Apr 5
2 min read

Grab a cuppa and see what we’ve been up to!

Our wonderful new Hub will, I’m sure, become an integral part of Broadlands — a place to meet, run events, share a coffee, catch up with friends, take five minutes to chill and more.

We were fortunate to receive funding last September from EHDC Rural Projects for the creation of this new Hub. It’s been a bit of a stop-start project, beginning in late October and finishing right on target Wednesday 25th March.

Given the timescales and budget, the only option for siting the Hub was in our old tack room due to its water, drainage and central location. So, where to put all the tack? The temporary solution: purchase a storage container and place it centrally in the yard. Work started 21st October, moving the old shed, breaking up the concrete base, and levelling the ground.

On 4th November the container arrived and was craned into position. It was converted into the new tack room — connected to the power supply and lined for secure storage. By mid-December, the old tack room was empty — a blank canvas for our Hub vision. A new south-facing window now floods the space with natural light and countryside views.

By end of January, new windows and the kitchen were installed — complete with two Broadlands firsts: a dishwasher for the mugs and glasses, and a fridge for events! Late February, lighting and air-conditioning/heating were connected, the first paint coats applied, and the new electrical supply boxed in safely.

In early March, walls received final coats and the floor was screeded for safety vinyl flooring.

TODAY, 31st March, the HUB officially opened!

Huge thanks to everyone who made it possible:

East Hampshire District Council team for funding

Rob Sanger electrician

Nick Foster plasterer

Howdens(Alton) for supporting the kitchen

Cold Control Servicesfor air-conditioning

Mike Frost Carpets Ltd for flooring

C.J.B Land Management for tree and access

Suzanne and Dudley Stratford for their ongoing support

AND of course, our Broadlands Maintenance Volunteers for their time and dedication.