The grant, awarded from developer contributions (S106), will enable the scouts to expand and refurbish their kitchen area. This will provide facilities for youngsters to learn essential life skills such as cooking and preparing healthy meals.
Cllr Mark Coleman, Cabinet Member for Finance at Vale of White Horse District Council, expressed his pleasure at supporting the group. "I’m really pleased that we have been able to offer on-going support to the Wantage Scout Group to improve their headquarters and facilities," he stated. "This is exactly what developer contributions are for, and what better way to use it than to help the younger people in our district who are the future of the area."
Steve Houseman, Group Lead Volunteer for Wantage Scout Group, conveyed his appreciation for the funding. "We really appreciate the funding provided through the District Council," he said. "This investment has already transformed our meeting space, and with Phase 2 now secured, we can offer even more practical opportunities—like cooking classes—for our youngsters. We are extremely thankful to the wonderful people at the District Council for their ongoing support and dedication to our community."
This latest funding follows an earlier award of £73,180 from the same contribution, which facilitated Phase 1 of the works. This included revamping the main Troop Room, updating the heating system, installing a new external access door, replacing windows and cladding, and improving insulation.
In total, the Vale of White Horse District Council has allocated £123,576 for the project, sourced from developer contributions (S106) from the Crab Hill development in Wantage. Phase 2 of the refurbishment is anticipated to commence in the coming weeks.
