Community venue roof project makes progress

By timesecholife on in All News, Community News

A project to repair the roof of a much-valued community venue is making good progress. The Guild Hall in Tape Street, Cheadle is currently having works carried out to revamp the building's roof.

A project to repair the roof of a much-valued community venue is making good progress.

The Guild Hall in Tape Street, Cheadle is currently having works carried out to revamp the building’s roof.

Peter Lucas, at the Guild Hall, said: “Following two years of planning, work started to remove the asbestos cement tiles at the beginning of November.

“Thankfully the roof timbers were generally found to be in good condition. The timber fascia however was not, and has had to be replaced.

“Because of the nature of the project the whole roof had to be stripped before the area could be cleaned and handed over to the roofing contractor.

“The weather has not been kind and unfortunately the severe conditions have caused some damage to areas of the ceiling. All this has meant that the project will overrun.

“New lathes are now in place along with new, modern insulation, which should help with energy efficiency and running costs in the future.

“The remaining tiling should be complete by the end of January when the scaffolding can start to come down and the clean-up operation can start.”

Mr Lucas explained that the hall’s ambitious fundraising drive got off to a slow start but some much-appreciated donations have now been coming their way.

He said: “We are most grateful for a very generous donation of £5,000 from members of the Lavan family, in memory of their parents Milo and Nolly.

“There have also been welcome donations from local businesses and individuals.

“We would also like to thank Brian Stoddard who, on behalf of the group of ballroom dancers that Brian coordinated, has donated the sum of £2,000.

“These gifts will ensure that 2021 will start on a positive note.”

Recently, we ran an article about Maura Frith and her memories of the Guild Hall which has encouraged more memories to be shared of the community venue.

Mr Lucas said: “Brian’s reminiscences and Maura’s recent article in the Stunner have reminded us all of the significant part that the Guild Hall has played in the social and civic scene of Cheadle and the surrounding area.

“Many people will have their own memories and experiences.

“The Guild Hall is asking everybody to help secure the future of this iconic building and venue, by making a contribution to the roof restoration fund.

“Having not been able to open since March, our income has plummeted and therefore some of the funds we had earmarked for this project have had to be diverted into general running costs.

“If you haven’t given already, please do consider making a donation to our fund.

“No matter how big or small, any contributions will make a big difference.”

Ways in which people can contribute are: By cheque – payable to The Guild Hall Cheadle and posted to 18 Charles Street, Cheadle, ST10 1ED. Online giving at: www.stgilescheadle.org.uk/guild-hall.html and click on ‘Donate to the Guild Hall Roof Fund’ or via Facebook @guildhallcheadle.

Anyone wishing to support the Guild Hall, or who would like to discuss the project further, can contact Peter Lucas on 07971 643648, or via email at stgiles.cheadle@rcaob.org.uk.

See page six of this week’s paper to read Brian Stoddard’s memories of the Guild Hall over the years.

Don’t forget, you can also subscribe to read the full paper online at: www.timesechoandlife.co.uk/membership-account/membership-levels.

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