A village hall in Carnforth has been earmarked for a £1 million refurbishment project.
Carnforth Town Council took over responsibility for the management of Crag Bank Village Hall in 2021, and since then it has invested more than £30,000 in the building, installing LED lighting and a new keyless entry system and opening a platform for online bookings.
In early 2024, the Council commissioned architects and mechanical engineers to redesign the building for its long-term future. The preferred option required an investment of around a million pounds, and the council consulted on this as part of its budget planning for the current financial year, and planned to seek funding from the then government.
Then in June 2024, an election was called, and all government funding was paused.
Carnforth Town Council is now considering alternative avenues, and details of the plan, consultation and funding arrangements will be available later this year.
Meanwhile, the council say they’re working hard to resolve the recent issues at the venue concerning the heating system.
A spokesperson said: ‘’We appreciate the feedback and concerns raised by our community regarding the recent issues with the heating system at Crag Bank Village Hall. Your comfort and satisfaction are important to us.
‘’After many problems with the heating over the winter of 2023, the council commissioned a professional heating report which resulted in the system being replaced in October 2024.
‘’This modern system worked perfectly over the winter and into 2025.
‘’The council is fully aware of the heating issues in recent weeks and is actively working with qualified professionals to resolve them as quickly as possible. We are committed to ensuring that the Village Hall remains a comfortable space for all users.
‘’The Council is dedicated to maintaining and improving this valuable community asset for everyone to enjoy.
‘’It takes its stewardship responsibilities seriously and is committed to maintaining open communication with the community. We are here to listen to your concerns and work together to enhance our facilities.
‘’Thank you for your understanding and support as we work through these challenges. Together, we can ensure that Crag Bank Village Hall continues to be a welcoming and vibrant space for all.’’
Many long-term users occupy the venue, including the Crag Bank Under 5s, Carnforth Community Choir, Crag Bank Bowling Club, two dog clubs and Pilates and Dance Fit sessions, as well as regular toy and antique fairs and one-off hires for parties and community events.
Man pleads guilty to Heysham murder
Driest March in Lancaster since records began
Pioneering Morecambe 'podcast' from 1980s unearthed after 44 years
Lorry driver from Morecambe arrested after positive roadside drug test
Hundreds raised after vandalism to Lancaster hospice shop
Plans under way to bring spring flowerbed planting back to Morecambe
New cycle and pedestrian friendly crossing completed in Morecambe
INTERVIEWS: Morecambe Bay visitor guide launched with high hopes for tourist season
Pan-disability game at Morecambe FC will raise awareness of autism
Morecambe lifeboat crew respond to reports of ‘flashing lights and red flares’
Voices of 2,000 schoolchildren bring joy to Lancaster singing festival
Popular 'March of the Mods' live music weekend in Morecambe looks set for sell-out
Line-up revealed for new Prom Fest music festival in Morecambe
Friends of Morecambe Platform announce partnership with local cancer charity
INTERVIEWS: Your views on the Morecambe Promenade camper van ban controversy
Three fire engines called to blaze in West End of Morecambe
Local heroes recognised at Lancashire High Sheriff Awards
Man jailed after stealing jewellery and watches from Lancaster store
Lancaster coffee icons reveal city's new 'secret' venue and restaurant
Lancaster homecare provider launches new initiative to help tackle loneliness
