Tarves Youth Hall was built in 1958, converted from old steadings, with volunteers and local tradespeople combining to create a space for youth organisations to meet. Sixty years on, it was showing its age. Ambitious plans were drawn up and a massive fundraising drive began in 2018. Covid rather threw a spanner into the works and some parts of the plan had to be rethought but the hall is now a wonderful warm, safe and welcoming space.
The Floor — Years of young people running about and having fun had taken their toll on the hall floor. Sanding and re-varnishing were no longer feasible so a replacement was essential. A fresh bright solid hardwood floor has been installed. The Indoor Bowlers, Guides and Karate are already taking advantage of it.
Kitchen — The tiny kitchen was just about functional for teas and coffees, although even then not ideal, but when it came to the Big Breakfast or Messy Church lunch, Harvest Suppers or children’s parties, it was less than adequate. If you have ever carried kettles or trays of hot food along the passage through to the hall you will know it was precarious.
A brand new fully equipped kitchen has now been installed in the former cloakroom. There is a serving hatch directly into the Hall. And there is a single lockable door so children cannot run in and out.
Toilets — There are additional toilets along with a disabled access toilet and baby changing facilities.
Heating and insulation — Heating any large space is difficult and the hall was always chilly on winter mornings but there is now underfloor insulation and air source heating. The hall is warm and comfortable.
Entrance porch — The old entrance was something of a bottleneck. There is now a bright and spacious entrance with a cloakroom, parking for buggies and wheelchairs and space to congregate.
The future
The village and the community are continuing to grow and to thrive. Many people have happy memories of events in the Youth Hall and we want to be able to create many more happy memories in future, offering a safe and welcoming space to everyone who comes through the Youth Hall door.
The hall is available for hire so do get in touch if you or your organisation would like to make a booking.