The project, to build a new sustainable straw bale community hall was the culmination of ten years of fundraising by villagers in Neatishead which was supported by a grant from the Big Lottery Fund as well as funds raised by the local community, replacing the old Edwardian hall built in 1914.

The works involved the construction of a 153m2 main hall, meeting room, kitchen, toilets, car park and a play area.

Working with the Community

In recognition of this we actively encouraged the local community to participate in the construction phase, with 170 people helping move the straw bales from nearby fields on to the site and some 20 volunteers helped to render the straw bale circular meeting room.

Free training was provided for volunteers on all aspects of straw bale construction and rendering.