New Gosport parish centre needs £2m for construction project

For the past few years, fundraising efforts have generated £134,000 for the Alverstoke Parish Centre regeneration fund, which will see a new community parish centre built in Gosport.

But with planning permission secured and plans for the building being drawn up, the group behind the scheme says fundraising must continue and more cash will be needed.

Group secretary Philippa Harrap said: ‘At the moment we’re just about to complete the most detailed designs yet – so it’s a big step forward.

‘Lockdown has slowed our progress and our fundraising efforts, but we are determined to make this project a success.’

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic putting the brakes on the project, generous donations have allowed things to progress.

Around £9,000 was donated by a trio of Women’s Institute groups, and county councillors Chris Carter and Peter Edgar, both from Gosport, have also pledged some funding.

Now, as coronavirus lockdown restrictions begin to ease, it is hoped that fundraising events can start up once again.

SEE ALSO: Gosport church submits plans to demolish parish centre - and build a brand new one

Philippa said: ‘We have a new fundraising campaign on the way for individuals to raise money via JustGiving – and we hope to organise a garden walkabout as well.

‘We held one previously and it was a tremendous success. This next one will likely take place in July once all the restrictions are lifted.

'The councillors gave us their designated amount, but it’s the Women’s Institutes that really went above and beyond. To raise £9,000 between them is a staggering amount, and other groups have put funds forward as well.’

Philippa and the group hope that with the right investment, the project will be ready to go by the end of the year.

They hope that coming out of lockdown, people will be keen to make the most of community spaces such as the parish centre.

‘Never before has a community centre been missed quite so much,’ said Philippa.

‘Now is the time to invest in our community spaces – we have an Everest to climb but we will make it happen.’

For more information people can join the Alverstoke New Parish Centre on Facebook.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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