YEW TREE HALL PLANS APPROVED!!

We are delighted to report that both planning permission and Listed Building Consent were granted on 8th May 2026.

The only change that needed to be made was the introduction of a lean-to style roof on the entrance porch. This style of roof is more in keeping with the industrial nature of the hall and offers a larger covered area at the entrance.

Undoubtedly, the level of support for the planning application from the community was a major factor in securing planning approval. Thank you to everyone that wrote a letter of support, as it clearly demonstrated to the planning officers how important the improvement of Yew Tree Hall is to people.

Time to turn plans into reality!!

NEXT STEPS:

The improvement work needs to be undertaken in distinct phases. Each phase can then commence when sufficient funding has been secured. Our target of £300,000 for community donations remains, and we therefore need another £120,000 to complete the entire project.

Phase 1a – Accessibility

This initial phase would involve all the design and construction work for the new exterior access, including a platform lift, and interior works such as the new accessible ground floor toilet, staircase to the first floor, toilets on the first floor and new servery-style kitchen - all the improvements up to the door to the main hall. Work to the main hall, including raising the floor, will be done later.

Although an application for a grant of £95,000 has been submitted it is by no means guaranteed and we still need the additional £120,000 to be raised through community donations. A decision on the grant funding will be made in September. In the meantime, please keep donating!

Phase 1b – Acoustics main hall

We want to address the poor acoustics in the hall as early as possible, as this is a major concern of the community. These works include the installation of acoustic panels and a new audiovisual (AV) system.

Further phases

Other phases will include work to the main hall (particularly raising the floor for level access and new heating), re-rendering the exterior, and fitting solar panels and an air source heat pump (ASHP). Every opportunity will be taken to identify and apply for grants from outside bodies to secure the funding needed for all the phases. We are very grateful for the generous donations received from many individuals. The success of this project is in our own hands, and continued community donations will be essential to make this happen.

You can donate through a bank transfer to:

Payee: Yew Tree Hall

Sort code: 40-18-03

Account: 81114794

Thank you, everyone, for your continued support!