Organised by Girlguiding Urmston DivisionGirlguiding Urmston Division are in the process of rebuilding their local Headquarters in Urmston, known as 'Dyson House'. The old building served us well for over 40 years but became dilapidated and reached the end of its serviceable life.
Dyson House has served us well over 4 decades as our local Guiding HQ. Over the years there have been many repairs to the building and we've maintained it as best we can, but unfortunately the condition of the building deteriorated to a point where it was well past it's serviceable life:
It had a dilapidated felt roof which was structurally unsound
The poor construction with no insulation resulted in cold spaces and high energy bills
The design didn't meet building regulation standards for users with disabilities
The hall space was not fit for purpose
The low ceiling heights restricted the use of space
There was a lack of storage
In 2020 we were fortunate to receive some bequeathed funds, which were stipulated to be used for the purpose of Dyson House. This triggered us into considering whether together with our existing funds, some grant applications and some fundraising, we would be able to carry out a rebuild of Dyson House and secure it's future long term.
We approached a local Architect and began the process of deciding what we needed from a new building. This included consulting with local residents neighbouring the property. We hit some delays and challenges due to the Covid Pandemic, but finally were able to apply for Planning Permission. This was a drawn out process, but in February 2022 we were granted full permission to demolish the old building and rebuild a new community building!
Our project is taking part in 2 phases.
Phase 1: Demolition of the old building, laying new foundations then erecting a new brick structure which will be watertight, with a roof and windows.
Phase 2: To fit out the interior of the new building to make it useable, and to complete the project with a new front boundary wall and gates.
As of September 2023, Phase 1 has begun! The old building has been demolished and work has started on the new foundations, but we need extra funds to complete this phase of the project. This is why we have set up this JustGiving account and specifically this Campaign page. We are also applying for several grants for various aspects of the project, but we are asking for your support with fundraising and donations.
If you would like to be part of our "Buy a Brick" scheme (minimum donation £20) please contact GMWUrmston@gmail.com for your name to be recorded and a certificate emailed out to you.
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