Community Centre AGM

On Tuesday night a small but select group of Tarvin residents gathered in the Lounge at the Community Centre for the Centre's Annual General Meeting.
Chairman Alan Wilkinson said that the last year had been one of significant progress.
Among the Committee's achievements had been the signing of a supplementary lease with Cheshire West and Chester Council giving the Committee formal control of the rooms previously occupied by the (now closed) Children's Centre- these rooms included the Small Room which is now available for lettings, together with the reception/box office and a storage room.

The most significant achievement had been the successful completion of the new Lounge/Bar, much admired by everyone who sees it, together with the new toilet for people with a disability and a ramp to the rear entrance. This had required major investment by the Committee, supported by grants from outside bodies for which the Committee was extremely grateful. The total cost had actually been less than anticipated, leaving the Centre with spare funds for further investment in the future.

Other improvements during the year included a replacement digital projector in the Edna Rose Room, a projection screen on the back wall of the Hall, repainting by volunteers of the Hall, Edna Rose Room, foyer and toilets, and the obtaining of the Hallmark Standard Level 1 for village halls and community buildings (Levels 2 & 3 still to aim for!).

The financial position of the Community Centre remains healthy, as evidenced by the final accounts for 2016/17, which had been signed off by the independent examiner. Community Centre Treasurer Ted Lush took the audience through the accounts, which did not give rise to any questions.

The Chairman also outlined some of the Committee's aspirations for the future. These are focused on improvements to the Hall and stage, and the Committee will shortly receive a report from its quantity surveyors identifying what works are needed, what professional/specialist advice will be needed and what the likely cost will be.

All of the current Committee members agreed to serve again for another year. Associate members of the Committee will include representatives of some of the Centre's user groups, including Ashton Hayes and Tarvin Flower Club, Tarvin Gardening Society, Tarvin WI; Tarvin Civic Trust will also continue to send a representative to each meeting.

Alan Wilkinson has agreed to remain as Chairman, with Ted Lush as Treasurer and Jane Lush as Secretary. However, the Committee does need a new Vice-Chairman, Brian Hardacre having stood down from this post while remaining a member of the Committee.

The meeting ended with a vote of thanks and appreciation to the current Committee. There was no criticism, and no suggestions for changes. Clearly everything the Committee does is perfect...... However, if you do not agree, there is another opportunity to make your views known, at the Parish Council's Annual Meeting which takes place in the Community Centre on Thursday 4 May