Northumberland

Etal Village Hall

Improving storage and energy efficiency

Etal village hall has been a central space for the community for many years. With a proactive management committee, the hall has seen various improvements to ensure it remains a well-maintained and accessible facility. The latest project, supported by the Community Spaces Partnership (CSP), focused on building a new storage space and installing a battery system to improve energy efficiency.

Steve Taylor, a member of the management committee, led the project. The hall had been using a wooden shed for storage, which was not easily accessible. After seeing another village hall with a dedicated storage space, the committee recognised the benefits of a similar solution. The estate and the neighbouring pub were supportive, adjusting a fence to provide the necessary space.

Alongside the storage extension, the committee identified the need for a battery system to store excess solar power. The village experiences occasional power cuts, and the battery was seen as a way to provide backup power and reduce electricity costs.

Etal Village Hall

Securing funding

The committee had previously secured funding from various sources for improvement works. The CSP process was different due to its minimal paperwork, which was seen as a major advantage. Members of the management committee attended a meeting with CSP representatives and found the process straightforward. However, the project required additional policies to be put in place, which the committee worked on with support from Community Action Northumberland (CAN).

The project involved two key elements: the construction of a new storage extension and the installation of a battery system.

Successes

The new storage space has improved the functionality of the hall. Tables, chairs, and stage equipment are now stored separately, allowing the hall to be used more efficiently.

The battery system also contributes to long-term energy savings and supports the hall’s commitment to sustainability.

Etal also has experienced power cuts and local people use the hall to cook their lunch using the gas cooker.

Challenges

Finding a builder for the storage extension was a challenge, as it was a small project in a rural area. The committee obtained three quotes and ultimately chose a local company, Kitson Windows, for the work.

The battery installation was carried out by local firm, Maden Eco, and aims to provide backup power during outages and store excess energy. However, the system has not yet been fully optimised, as winter conditions reduce the battery’s ability to charge. The committee continues to explore ways to maximise its effectiveness.

Community cohesion

​The hall remains a key venue for the local community. Regular activities include pilates, monthly basket-making sessions, and film screenings. The hall also serves as a starting point for events such as the Bamburgh Run motorcycle rally and a cycling event. Each Easter, walkers from the Northern Cross pilgrimage stay overnight before continuing to Holy Island. The space is also used for weddings and other gatherings, with visitors often commenting on its welcoming atmosphere.

Future plans

The project has strengthened Etal village hall’s role as a community hub. The CSP funding process and support from CAN made the project more accessible, reducing the workload often associated with funding applications. The improvements ensure the hall remains well-equipped for future use, providing a practical and sustainable space for the community.

How Community Action Northumberland helped

​Community Action Northumberland encouraged the village hall team to apply for funding, and ensured the project remained on target, through regular reporting and support.

Steve said:

“When we first took over the hall it was badly affected by condensation, especially in winter. Keeping the hall nice for people to use, and having somewhere for emergencies, has always been in the back of our minds and the new store room and battery installation help towards that.”

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