Village hall needed to build community

A former RAF squadron leader has launched a two-pronged appeal to improve amenities in Saddleworth villages.

Robert Knotts, also a retired university lecturer, says Austerlands and Scouthead lack a village hall and allotments.

He said: “The villages offer little by way of community amenities to the young or old, married or single, active or inactive.

“We need land, a building, funding, commitment and opportunity to enhance our community. A village hall and allotments will go a long way to provide that enhancement.

“For example, the hall would provide a focus for activities to support and improve the quality of life, particularly for vulnerable and disadvantaged groups.

“They could offer badminton, bowls, amateur dramatic groups, art clubs, village festivals, social events and family celebrations.”

Mr Knotts, who lives in Austerlands, says the local cricket club could be a possible option, adding: “There are lots of opportunities to use the place as a village hall. They could raise funds to contribute to its maintenance.”

He said allotments would provide a cheap source of fresh produce and contribute to a healthy diet.

“They also help community spirit and provide a good form of exercise,” he added.

Local ward councillor Derek Heffernan said there was very little council-owned land suitable for a village hall and any existing building would have to be bought and undergo major building work.

“It is possible Lottery funding may be available for this,” he said.

“We have very good facilities available at Austerlands Cricket Club. I am sure the committee would welcome new, active members.

“And it has off-street parking which is not available anywhere else in the village.”

On allotments, he said a few people worked a site — which has since been built on — and gave up.

“Allotments need to be worked consistently to be viable, if any fail it affects the rest,” he said.

Councillor Mark Alcock, cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, said: “The provision of allotments is currently being reviewed across the borough.”

l Residents with views on the village hall and allotment ideas can e-mail Mr Knotts at: robert.knotts@btinternet.com