Help needed to complete 'eagerly awaited' community hub

(Left to Right) Caryl Sydney Smith, Iris Keeble, Jo Vertannes and Kareen Boyd are appealing for help to get the hub open

A community hub project is looking for volunteers and additional funding in the hope it can open by the end of the year.

The former Toot and Whistle pub in Toothill, Swindon, is being renovated by a Community Interest Company (CIC) with funding from the National Lottery Big Local grant.

But project directors said they face delays after work left unfinished by a contractor means it cannot yet get the insurance it needs to open.

Director of the CIC and West Swindon parish councillor Caryl Sydney-Smith said they have now "had a positive site visit from Swindon Borough Council to identify what work is needed" and is appealing for help from local tradespeople.

Swindon's former Toot and Whistle pub is being converted into the Toothill community hub

The hub will provide a community building which will run as a pub alongside hosting community events, celebrations, classes and meetings.

Work began in 2018 to develop the community hub, which has undergone extensive renovations, including new heating, electrics, Wi-Fi, toilets and a kitchen.

But delays to the project have attracted criticism on local social media.

Jo Vertannes, the new interim CEO, told the BBC that her goal was to get the "space open and thriving for the residents of Toothill".

"We are looking for volunteers skilled in all building trades to help get the hub open by Christmas," she said.

The new hub has a bar area, function rooms and a fully equipped kitchen

The project is being funded by the majority of a £1m grant awarded by the National Lottery in 2010, with part of the funding going to small local projects, such a new library books, a community garden project and help to local schools.

But disputes with the contractor, which the CIC said has gone out of business, means there is outstanding work to complete before the building is passed fit for public use.

Ms Vertannes said they are now hoping to raise additional funds, adding they cannot apply for grant funding to cover construction works that have already been completed.

The CIC said it has sought legal advice on how to recoup costs for unfinished work.

Swindon Borough Council said it is "liaising with the CIC to ensure the building meets the regulations required to allow it to open safely" and that "they are making progress".