Torrens Hall renovation project benefits from £10k Biffa grant

The building, which is more than 130 years old, has worn the tide of time well, due in the main to continuous upkeep by a dedicated group of hard-working committee members. However, thanks to grant funding from Biffa Award - a multi-million pound fund that helps transform lives through grants for community and environmental projects across the UK as part of the Landfill Communities Fund - the programme of internal and external repair work and modernisation at the venue has taken a major step forward.

Thanks to help from South Antrim Community Network, the Torrens Memorial Hall committee was able to secure £10,000 from Biffa Award towards the hall refurbishment project. And the money has been put to good use, with the installation of secondary glazing and replacement uPVC windows at the rear of the building.

Shirley Orr, Honorary Secretary of the committee, commented: “The hall is now so warm, the heating system is so much more effective and ultimately this will reduce our fuel consumption as the building will be properly sealed.

“Our thanks go to Biffa Award as without the small grants programme we would not have been able to fund the renovation. The difference they have made to the community venue in Doagh is just incredible. Now the hall is so much warmer it will now have much wider appeal.”

Cllr Jim Bingham, Chairman of Torrens Memorial Hall, added: “To see continued physical work to the exterior and interior within this community venue is exciting. We will soon see it completed, providing a fresh look to this historic building within the village and one that everyone can be proud of and avail of.”

Built in 1885, Torrens Hall plays host as a community resource to groups and individuals from not only within the village of Doagh, but also the surrounding districts, accommodating a wide range of social, cultural, educational and sporting activities.

The hall’s packed programme includes a twice weekly bowling schedule, ballet classes, computer classes and band practices. It also accommodates many large scale events throughout the year, including Christmas concerts, treasure hunts, birthday parties and community celebrations.

Anyone interested in making use of the venue should contact Shirley Orr on 028 9334 0653.