A historic venue is preparing to reopen its doors to the public thanks to the efforts of volunteers and new owners.
Waddow Hall is nestled in acres of scenic countryside and welcomed generations of families, youth groups, and schools before it was closed in December 2023.
Earlier this year, it was announced the venue had been acquired, and Lancashire-based GT Foundation was hoping to re-launch the venue.
Located just outside of Clitheroe, in May 2023 the venue was one of five centres which was listed to be closed as the national Girlguiding association said it could no longer afford the upkeep.
Owners have revealed the new vision includes welcoming back Girlguiding groups, but also opening its doors to ‘Scouts, Cubs, schools, and a variety of local organisations’.
Linn Smith was involved in the reopening efforts.
She said: “I think we're excited because when it closed, we were all devastated.
“This community facility was being taken away from the community and from all the children who should have been here.
"So having the chance to put it back where it belongs is absolutely the right thing to do.
“We're absolutely thrilled that it’s going to be back in action again as an activity centre.
“It wasn’t just a venue, it was a way of life for people around here. A lot of people were very, very upset when it closed.
"We can’t wait to reopen the doors and welcome everyone back in.”
Volunteer, Jannet Taylor, said: “We want to keep the ethos of what Waddow Hall stands for.
“People have such fond memories of being here, and we’re committed to keeping that spirit alive for future generations. You get an experience here that you can’t get anywhere else.
“I’ve done a lot of research and I can’t wait to give tours again, telling people the stories behind this place.
“Waddow Hall is more than just buildings and grounds. It’s memories, community, and belonging.
"We’re not just reopening a centre, we’re restoring a piece of Lancashire’s heart.”
The reopening will see the return of school residential trips and a host of indoor and outdoor activities, from archery and climbing to heritage trails and team-building challenges.
Waddow Hall had been run by Girlguiding UK, which is headquartered in Buckingham Palace Road, London.
A petition was also launched asking for Girlguiding to reconsider selling the centres. The decision caused much upset, and the building was later put up for sale following its closure.
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