A PROPOSED major £200,000 refurbishment and extension of a community hub has been described as 'vital' to safeguard it for future generations.

Funds are being raised by the Cliviger Village Hall Management Committee to build an extra room and redevelop the kitchen and toilet facilities.

The Burnley Road centre is run by volunteers and dozens of groups from the area use the hall for meetings, workshops and engagements.

Alan Scholes, the group’s chairman, said the project would ensure the buildings sustainability in the years to come.

The committee will be looking to raise the cash to go ahead with the work once details of the project have been approved.

The group was granted planning permission for the build last year.

Mr Scholes said it was vital the hall is expanded so it can flourish.

He said: “We really need to improve the hall’s facilities so we can keep it enjoyable for everyone who uses it.

“The toilets need to be up-to-date, the kitchen needs a good reshape, and we really do need an extra room.

“It’s a catch 22 situation, if we have really nice, modern facilities then we can attract more groups and then be able to fund better things.

“But it’s getting the money to be able to do that.

“As soon as the last of the details are finalised we will be looking at ways of fundraising and paying for it all.

“But if something doesn’t work out and we have to just alter the space we have now, it will be difficult.”

The centre has a range of features, including a music licence until 11pm and a free car park adjacent to the hall.

Cllr David Heginbotham, who represents the area on Burnley Council, said: “The hall is a wonderful building and it is extremely popular with everyone.

“It’s constantly used and it deserves to have the refurbishment. We want to be able to attract more people to use it."