Civic hall ‘to be saved by new group’ (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Civic hall ‘to be saved by new group’

2:43pm Tuesday 5th June 2007 in News By Kelly Livesey

A group is set to be formed to safeguard the long-term future of a civic hall.

The Friends of Ramsbottom Civic Hall will be created this month after the town's community became sick and tired of the threat of closure hanging over the hall.

The threat last reared its head when Bury Council announced its budget cutbacks in February and recommended the hall should close.

The hall, in the market place, dates back to the late 1800s. It avoided closure after a campaign from supporters but like-minded residents decided to take action to remove the threat once and for all.

They suggested forming a committee, whose responsibility would be promoting the facility and increasing bookings.

Linda de Ruijter, of Ramsbottom Heritage Society, is at the forefront of plans to save the hall. She said: "The hall is integral to the community. We are trying to ensure its future life.

"We hope that if we work with the council we will hear about anything in the offing first and will be able to avoid closure. I think it has touched all our hearts and minds and we are not going to put up with closure."

And Linda revealed that she would like to see the disused upper floor of the hall, in need of refurbishment, brought back into use, although this would take investment.

The hall, managed by Mike Court, is used more than ever and hosts a karate club, WeightWatchers, Reel 2 Reel cinema showings, a monthly farmers' market, Ramsbottom Heritage Society, Speak Easy, a group which helps people who have had a stroke, Hawkshaw Flower Club, the Women's Institute and private functions.

A meeting will be held at the civic hall on June 18 for people to join the Friends group and the committee will also be elected. Call Linda on 01706 827602.