Steve Brine joined a host of scouts and dignitaries as the HQ of 11th Winchester Scout Group was re-opened on Thursday 10th September.
The Log Cabin, on Stockbridge Road, was officially re-opened by the Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Angela Clear, having undergone a £90,000 project to transform the cold and draughty building into a warmer, more welcoming venue for activities, meetings and events.
The project has remodelled the Stockbridge Road building's entrance and extended it to create access and toilets for people with disabilities, and storage facilities for the different groups that use the cabin. The building's energy efficiency has also been drastically improved by installing insulation, energy efficient doors and windows, low-energy lighting, and water-saving devices.
The work cost in the region of £90,000 and funding came from The Veolia Environmental Trust, who awarded £65,000 through the Landfill Communities Fund, and the Scouts themselves, who raised an impressive £30,000 from fundraising events including an appeal, a car boot sale, a quiz night and the annual bonfire night. Further help was provided by Millgate (Winchester), E Francis architects and Elliotts Builders Merchants.
Scout Leader Giles Gooding says "The Log Cabin is a unique structure and the refurbishment has improved the facilities while retaining its wonderful character, something that was clearly important to the community."
The Executive Director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, Paul Taylor, adds, "We support community and environmental projects across the UK and it is always great to hear about the opening of one we have helped. Winchester now has an excellent venue for the whole community to use and I hope it is enjoyed for many years to come."
Steve Brine said: "I am a long-standing supporter of the Scouts, and was a proud member when I was a boy. This is a fantastic new facility and it was a real pleasure to be here tonight."