DESPITE “local rumblings to the contrary”, work to convert Minehead’s Old Hospital into a £2.1 million community hub is now well under way.
Project spokesman Bill Griffiths said that major repair work had already started on the building, a new community interest company – Minehead Connect – was now driving the project and plans for more community involvement were going ahead.
Mr Griffiths said the next developments would include:
n Renewing the community consultation study with a wider reach and increased depth.
n Progressing development of overall strategy for capital funding.
n Finalising a robust long-term sustainable business plan.
n Submitting an application to West Somerset Council for Section 106 funds for construction projects.
Mr Griffiths said that, following the acquisition of the site by Bill Howard, Minehead Connect was formed to drive the scheme forward, under the directorship of Brian Leaker, Alex de Mendoza and Cllr Andrew Kingston-James.
Formation of a steering group to work with the company, drawn from the local community was already well underway.
“The vision of Minehead Connect is for the Old Hospital to become the focal point for the community, bringing people together and providing a platform to enhance quality of life and social enjoyment,” Mr Griffith said.
“The plan is that the whole of the main building at the front of the site and all of the ground floor areas behind will be used for community purposes, with the main building being restored to its original Assembly Room format and safeguarded in the process.
“The aim is that it will accommodate all manner of community services and activities from family events such as weddings and birthdays to conference and exhibition centre and for dance/drama/exercise and music groups.”
In September 2016, Planning and Listed Buildings approval was achieved for the scheme and discussions with funding groups such as Architectural Heritage Fund are well underway.
For information updates go to the website www.mineheadconnect.co.uk.