A major refurbishment project at Goodworth Clatford Village Club is among the first schemes to benefit from a new £2 million fund designed to support community-led improvements across Test Valley.
Test Valley Borough Council has announced the first recipients of its Community Delivery Fund (CDF), with more than £69,000 awarded to the Goodworth Clatford venue to enhance its facilities and secure its long-term future.
The investment will see windows and external doors replaced, alongside a refurbishment of the interior, creating a warmer, safer and more welcoming space for residents. The project has been driven by strong local backing, with 180 responses submitted from 332 households, demonstrating clear community demand.
The improvements are expected not only to increase comfort and usability but also to help widen participation and strengthen the club’s financial sustainability in the years ahead.
The Goodworth Clatford scheme is one of three projects confirmed in the first round of funding. Awbridge Village Hall will receive £71,232 for a significant expansion, while Ampfield Village Hall has been awarded just over £22,000 for essential roof repairs.
The Community Delivery Fund, approved by full council last year, is aimed at supporting projects in rural areas and southern parishes that have strong local support and can be delivered within around two years. The scheme focuses on improving community buildings, strengthening local identity and ensuring facilities remain fit for the future.
Councillor Stewart Macdonald, portfolio holder for community-led projects, said the fund is about “backing local ideas that come from the community”.
“These first three projects show what the fund is here to do,” he said. “They protect valued buildings, improve facilities that people rely on, and help communities plan for the future with confidence.”
He added that the approach goes beyond a traditional grant scheme by working closely with communities from the outset to develop strong, evidence-led proposals.
Councillor Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said the fund helps create the conditions for communities to thrive.
“Strong communities do not happen by accident,” he said. “They grow when local people are listened to, trusted to lead, and are supported to turn their ideas into action.”
Further opportunities under the Community Delivery Fund are expected to be announced as the programme develops, with the council continuing to work alongside parish councils and local groups to support community-led change.