When the car park adjacent to the Memorial Hall (along with the garages and overflow field) was put up for sale in June, it was a move which took us all by surprise.

The Hall Committee unanimously agreed that all efforts should be made to purchase the car park, to ensure a critical asset remains available in perpetuity to support the Hall, the Church and the wider community, retaining a resource for locals and visitors alike.

This potential sale highlighted what was previously unthinkable: the risk of development, division of the plot, conversion of the garages or even denial of use of the car park. Even with a benevolent owner, the potential for longer-term uncertainty remains and this is a once in a generation opportunity to bring the car park and hall together for the continued use of the villages of Lee & Lincombe.

To this end, the Hall Committee have entered into exclusive negotiations with the owner of the car park (who lives in Australia); he is being constructive and helpful but has made it clear that whilst the price guide was offers “in excess of £150,000”, a successful offer would need to be closer to £200,000 – and that time is of the essence. With mutliple inquiries made in the short time the sale was advertised, we have had to move quickly, and will need to continue to do so of we are to be successful.

A Plea for Help!

Obviously, £200,000 is a not insignificant figure, but the response to our original appeal has been truly extraordinary - with the response to date seeing donations and pledges amounting to almost 75% of the asking price being secured. Many more people have expressed a willingness to support this campaign and it was suggested a link to make a donation and to share with family and friends would be useful. Hopefully this page will serve that purpose.

If we can seize this opportunity, we will secure something special for future generations, and maintain what we have and enjoy now.

We hope this is a community effort and - although getting the sums is critical - a donation of any amount will help and be a tangible way to show your support, appreciation of the Hall and its place in the lives of our villages - and a reflection of how we can respond to a challenge together!