Kimpton Pavilion is set to benefit from £1,000 towards its refurbishment - with more money potentially on the way.

The pavilion, on Kimpton Recreation Ground, has received the grant from North Herts Council following a recommendation made by the Southern Rural Area Forum on June 22.

Originally constructed in 2006 as a football clubhouse, the refurbishment will provide a fitness studio, changing room, toilets with disabled accessibility, and an opportunity to set up a café.

More money may be on its way for Kimpton Pavilion too, if a recent application to the government's Community Ownership Fund is successful.

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The Fund is awarding £150 million over four years to community groups who can take ownership of local assets that are at risk of being lost.

Bim Afolami, the MP for Hitchin and Harpenden, has supported the application by writing to Michael Gove, the minister for levelling up, housing and communities.

Mr Afolami said: “This is an excellent project to bring this pavilion in a vibrant rural community back to a condition which will enable it to act as a great asset for people in Kimpton. I was delighted to be able to add my support to their bid for funding."

Cllr Ralph Muncer, who represents Kimpton on North Herts Council, added: "In recent years, the condition of the pavilion has deteriorated and therefore I’m delighted to support Kimpton Parish Council’s ambitious plans to refurbish this structure ensuring it can once again be used as a hub for our vibrant community."

North Herts Council has also awarded £610 to Offley Parish Council, which will fund two new benches for Offley Recreation Centre.

The benches will commemorate the Coronation of King Charles III Coronation, and will be placed between the three trees planted by the Parish Council in 2022 to commemorrate Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee.

Cllr Alistair Willoughby approved the funding for Kimpton Pavilion and Offley Recreation Centre under delegated decision as the executive Member for community & partnerships.

He said: “It is fantastic that we can help our local parish councils improve their facilities. I'm excited to see these projects bring a great community benefit to residents.”

Cllr David Barnard, chair of the Southern Rural Area Forum, added: “Kimpton’s refurbished pavilion will provide a wider community benefit for many years to come and the new benches in Offley Recreation Centre will improve the experience for local walkers and sport spectators.” 

The next Southern Rural Area Forum will take place on 21 September, with a venue to be confirmed.