THE fight is on to save New Quay War Memorial Hall from closure and carry out a major refurbishment.

A new committee has been set up to help run the building and to raise the £500,000 it is estimated is needed for essential repairs and improvements to the building.

The facility is popular with local groups and organisations, being used by up to 300 people a week.

Built in 1925 as a Memorial Hall for those fallen in the First World War, the hall comprises of a large auditorium where films and plays can be shown and sports and club activities such as badminton, dance groups etc. can take place. It also houses a snooker room plus several meeting rooms.

“For many years there had been no investment in the hall and only essential repairs were carried out. This has reached a critical stage where major investment is needed if the hall is to remain open,” said a spokesman for the new committee.

The hall trustees are Ceredigion County Council but it does not have the necessary funds to carry out the work, hence the formation of a new committee, which is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, and will work in partnership with the county council and has the backing of the town council.

A full survey has been completed and has identified serious defects in the building that need addressing such as replacing the roof tiles and windows, damp proofing the floor and walls, dealing with asbestos and making the building energy efficient etc.

The current layout is also far from ideal and the hall could be made much more accessible.

Funding will come from grant applications, community events, donations from suppliers and local organisations, expertise and advice from partners, donations from local organisations and labour donated by volunteers.

If anyone can help or wants more information about the project, contact John Barrett on 01545 561189 or email john@new-quay-shop.co.uk