Community project in Spelthorne awarded £900k grant from Your Fund Surrey

Surrey County Council’s Cabinet has approved Ashford Community Hub’s application to receive funding of approximately £900k towards a new building. 

The new Ashford Community Hub will greatly benefit Spelthorne residents by providing a much-needed modern space for all residents to enjoy. The grant will be used for a new building that is welcoming, accessible and environmentally sustainable.  

At present, the area lacks sufficient facilities and this new community hub will be a wonderful addition to the neighbourhood, enhancing opportunities for community groups and residents. 

The hub will provide space for a variety of classes catering to the needs of different groups, from mother and baby yoga, to fall prevention classes tailored specifically for individuals over 70, as well as further capacity for local Scouts, Beavers, and Cubs groups. As a result, there is an anticipated increase in skills and volunteering opportunities for residents.  

Planning permission for the new site between Ashford North and Staines South has already been granted, and over a quarter of a million pounds has been raised by 8^th Ashford Scouts towards the project to date. 

The new building will be used by charities and not for profit community groups with a particular focus on supporting community health and wellbeing and reducing social isolation. It will provide a range of activities which are not currently available in the Ashford, Staines and Stanwell areas as well as providing the new home for 8^th Ashford Scouts. 

Julie Reed, 8^th Ashford Group Scout Leader said: “We are very grateful that the council is investing in this building through Your Fund Surrey, which is much needed in the area and will be a real asset to the whole community. It will ensure the survival of 8^th Ashford Scout Group and will provide space for many different charities and community groups, benefitting people of all ages in Spelthorne.” 

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Community Safety Councillor Denise Turner-Stewart said: “I would like to congratulate 8^th Ashford Scouts who have been successful in their application to Your Fund Surrey to establish Ashford Community Hub. I applaud their vision and relentless determination to build a new facility that will benefit the entire community.  

“This funding will be a lifeline to residents. It is clear that this type of community building is much needed in the area. With fewer outdoor green spaces and community buildings than any other part of Surrey, this fantastic facility will provide a variety of new opportunities and activities for residents, from exercises classes for all ages to social groups and sports clubs. The new hub will benefit communities in Spelthorne, but particularly Staines, Ashford and Stanwell, to ensure that no one is left behind.” 

Communities can submit applications via the Your Fund Surrey website for large scale projects and find out how to contact their local county councillor about small scale projects www.surreycc.gov.uk/yourfund.