Project

Modernisation of the main entrance to Lopping Hall (a Victorian building) in the High Road. At present it looks run-down with a 1950's frontage and needs careful work to transofrm it into a modern attractive frontage.

What does your charity/project do?

Lopping Hall is for all Loughton residents but has been run down for 50 years. We want local people of all ages and abilities to use it for arts, heritage and culture in their widest sense including education, an Arts Cafe, workshops/studios for local artists/crafts people and rehearsal studios including upgrading the theatre. A lift has been recently installed to improve disabled access with new toilets for disabled, mother and baby planned. Renovation of roof later this year.

How does your charity/project support the local community?

By providing facilities that are accessible for all abilities and ages which raise awareness in the community and help community cohesion. Its long establishment (1887) is a focus for creativity in the town. It combines history with art. Local organisations using the Hall are expanding and we have set up an office to promote all arts activities in the town. We are used by performing arts groups and recently artists' groups to display their work.

What do you plan to use the CommunityForce award for?

Towards complete renovation of frontage with automatic doors for disabled access. An attractive entrance will encourage people to enter instead of walking by as at present. It needs to look open for business but currently looks closed and out-dated. It needs to be modern but harmonise with the old building as it is a feature in the town.