A major project to repair and replace Burnham-On-Sea Community Centre’s roof has been put on hold due to the Coronavirus outbreak.
The building, in Berrow Road, is over 200 years old and the centre’s trustees said they were “dismayed” that a survey had found the northern section of the pitched roof needs replacement.
A major fundraising push was due to be launched this month but it has had to be delayed until the end of the pandemic.
Talking to Burnham-On-Sea.com, Paul Hambleton, Chairman of the centre’s roof project, says: “Following emergency work to make the roof safe and watertight, plans were in place to go out to tender for the work and to formally launch the fund raising appeal with a profile raising event earlier this month.”
“Unfortunately, this has had to be put on hold until life returns to normal. The exact amount required to cover the cost of the repairs won’t be known until the tenders have been received, but the trustees are aware that it will be considerable. Plans are also in place to seek grants to cover part of the cost.”
Substantial refurbishment work last took place in 2011 and this has served the building well in ensuring it is fit for purpose for the foreseeable future.
He adds: “The trustees would like to thank the generosity of those who have already made donations in advance of the formal appeal launch.”
“They are also very grateful for the hard work and support already given, particularly from the Friends of the Community Centre.”
The Community Centre is home to a number of local organisations and voluntary groups, in particular Burnham’s popular U3A, one of the largest organisations of its type in the district.
Owned by Sedgemoor District Council, the Centre is operated by Burnham and Highbridge Community Association, a registered charity, who hold a repairing lease.
