Oakham Town Council Grants Victoria Hall £2800 to Avoid Closure
In a move designed to prevent the closure of a local landmark, Oakham Town Council has granted Victoria Hall £2800 to cover its immediate bills. The decision made at an extra meeting this Monday evening came after a grant application for £11,000 was submitted with insufficient accounting and inaccurate documentation.
While the full amount requested was not granted, the £2800 will provide a lifeline for Victoria Hall, a community hub that has faced financial difficulties in recent months. The council has instructed Victoria Hall to return next month with updated accounts and an explanation for how it has spent over £30,000 over the last financial year.
The decision to grant the partial funding has sparked debate within the community and among council members. Councillor Paul Ainsley, speaking to Oakham and Rutland News, explained the delicate situation faced by the council: "We were in a difficult position. If Victoria Hall were to close, we would be seen as a heartless council. On the other hand, granting the full amount without proper scrutiny would be irresponsible."
The councillor's comments highlighted the tension between the council's desire to support local institutions and its obligation to ensure public funds are used appropriately.
A suggestion from a resident that Oakham Town Council become the main controlling trustee and move its offices back into Victoria Hall has garnered support among some councillors. This proposal could provide a more direct oversight of the hall's finances and operations, potentially alleviating concerns about accountability. This could also see the venue become more affordable for local charitable or community groups.
As Victoria Hall continues to navigate financial challenges, the decision by Oakham Town Council to provide partial funding offers a temporary solution. However, the future of this community hub will depend on the hall's ability to address its underlying financial issues and secure long-term sustainability.
A New Beginning for Victoria Hall?
The recent decision by Oakham Town Council to grant Victoria Hall partial funding to avoid closure is a welcome step. However, the hall's long-term sustainability remains uncertain. A potential solution could be for the council to take a more active role in its management.
For too long, Victoria Hall has been underutilised, particularly during off-peak times. By assuming control, the council could transform the hall into a vibrant community venue. This would not only benefit local residents but also justify the public funds that have been invested in the building over the years.
One example of the hall's potential is the recently installed kitchen, (National Lottery funded) which is currently unused. By organising community events such as weekday coffee mornings and lunches, the council could put this asset to good use. Volunteers from a newly formed "Friends of Victoria Hall" group could play a crucial role in managing these activities, fostering a sense of ownership and community involvement.
Taking control of Victoria Hall would allow the council to implement a more strategic vision for the building. This could include partnering with local businesses, organisations, and individuals to offer a diverse range of activities and events. By doing so, the council could ensure that Victoria Hall remains a valuable asset to the community for generations to come.
