An impressive push by the Melbourne Community of Religious Sisters and their contacts, working with the 8th Chelmsford Scout Group, has got the development of a new community facility for Scouts and local groups off to a flying start.

National property and construction consultancy Wakemans is acting as employer’s agent, quantity surveyor and pre-contract principal designer on the project.

Comprising a large two-storey hall, kitchen, office and meeting rooms, the new facility will be used by the 8th Chelmsford Scout Group and various community groups.

A charitable community-based project established in 2003 by Canonesses of the Holy Sepulchre has played a key role in raising funds to get the project off the ground. Dedicated to building community, the Melbourne Project organises activities for retired people, parent and toddler sessions, cookery sessions, a sewing activity and a homework club along with an annual summer Fun Week for children of all ages.

Andrew Hancock, Divisional Director at Wakemans, says:

“As well as providing a home for the 8th Chelmsford Scout Group, this much-needed development will create a facility that people throughout the local community can enjoy.”

The 8th Chelmsford Scout Group’s original hut was built by volunteers and served its purpose for over 60 years, but had become increasingly difficult to maintain and more expensive to run, whilst also lacking access and toilet facilities for people with disabilities. The hut has now been demolished to make way for improved facilities. The site will also benefit from extra parking, external landscaping and secure fencing.

Beavers, Cubs and Scouts of the 8th Chelmsford Scout Group will meet at the new facility as will baton twirlers, an arts and crafts club and numerous other community groups. It is hoped that the new hall will become a focal point for Melbourne, bringing people together to engage in social events as well as educational activities so that they can learn new skills and make friends whilst having fun.

Contractor Jarvis Developers is on site and the project, which is progressing ahead of schedule, is due to be completed in August 2019.