Improvements to the community building funded by developer contributions
Major improvement works have been completed at the Forest Community Centre in Whitehill & Bordon thanks to money drawn from local development.
In July 2023, the Whitehill & Bordon Community Association (WBCA) was awarded £178,000 to help reduce running costs, improve energy efficiency and enhance facilities for residents.
The investment delivered upgrades, including:
- Installation of new double‑glazed windows and external doors
- Refurbishment of the centre’s toilets and kitchens
- Installation of automatic entrance doors to improve accessibility
During the project, WBCA also secured an additional £1,910 to repair a roof leak, bringing the total investment to £179,910.
The works were funded using developer contributions, reinvesting growth money back into the local community.
This latest investment builds on earlier support for the centre. In 2018–19, WBCA received just over £10,500 to install LED lighting and commission an energy study -further helping the association cut energy use and lower carbon emissions.
Cllr Andy Tree, Deputy Leader of EHDC & Portfolio Holder for Whitehill & Bordon Area, said: “I was proud to approve the £178,000 of funding only two months after being elected to EHDC and becoming the Whitehill & Bordon cabinet lead. I am delighted to see the work completed, as we want to use money generated by development to support residents in this part of Bordon.”
Nigel Welch, Chairman of the Whitehill & Bordon Community Association said: "On behalf of the trustees, employees, volunteers and all the users, we collectively have nothing but gratitude for the support and invaluable financial assistance we’ve had from both Whitehill Town Council and East Hampshire District Council.
"Everyone at the Whitehill Bordon Community Association continues to work hard to make the Forest Community Centre an accessible versatile community resource for user groups and all manner of events and functions."
The newly-completed works will help reduce the centre’s carbon footprint, make the building cheaper to run, and ensure it remains a welcoming, accessible and modern space for community groups and residents.