OMH 120 year renovation

Aim

To carry out Phase 1 of essential works to keep the fabulous Oswestry Memorial Hall open for community groups, projects and events.

Background

Since 1906, Oswestry Memorial Hall (OMH) has served the local community as a large 'village hall'.After many years of limited use and financial struggles, the hall is once again fulfilling its original purpose: to be a nurturing, supportive space for local community groups, projects and events.

Recently the hall has been brought back to life by an energetic and inspired team who have created a vibrant, busy and welcoming community space. Some small refurbishments have lifted the building and made it more welcoming, safe and accessible.

Renovation work needed

However, the building requires some bigger works to be done, to ensure the hall can remain open into its 121st year. Windows, doors, electrics all need improving, and there's some TLC needed for our kitchen and toilet facilities.

Having many more groups back in the hall highlights the need for this building to be preserved and retained for many more years to come. This extra usage though also accelerates the wear and tear, and that is why we are seeking urgent help from users, supporters and organisations that value such community spaces.

We have a shopping list of renovations/improvements that need urgent attention, across 3 phases, in priority order:

Phase 1 

New Chairs and tables  (est. £1,500)

Main Kitchen refurbishment  (est. £5,000)

Window repairs (est. £6,000)

Phase 2

Front & Side Doors & Security (£7,500)

Electrical upgrade  (est. £10,000)

Phase 3

Downstairs Toilets and hallway (est.£25,000)

Roof repairs (est. £15,000)

Why its important to keep the doors open

The value of the building in the community, and the impact it enables, is evident every day at OMH. 40 regular groups delivering activities and services across four main areas:

Social & Community

Movement & Wellbeing

Music & Performance

Arts & Crafts.

Participants are young and old, from diverse backgrounds, and some vulnerable groups with special needs. The building provides several spaces, each suitable for different activities. Our large (Oswald) hall provides excellent space for larger groups, for physical activity, performance and conferences seating up to 120 people.

Our Cambrian room provides a dedicated space for physical and mental well-being activities.

Our Festival Suite  accomodates a variety of activities for 10-40 people, including training courses, social and art groups, meetings and presentations. A community lounge offers a cosy, homely break-out, meeting or reception space. 

Our 'Nest' offer a small, quiet meeting room suitable for counselling, interviews, or lone-working.

Over 500 visitors every week make use of these spaces; and for many, it provides a critical interaction or social connection.

Without this essential renovation work, the building is at risk of reduced capacity or closure; and many of these groups and activities would cease to operate. 

We hope to secure financial and volunteer help to ensure the doors stay open for many years to come.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 11th November 2026 at 3:34pm