Rural community buildings across Hampshire have been considering ways to save energy and contribute to achieving Net Zero as part of a national campaign driven by Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE).

Village halls, often managed by volunteers, are key to local rural life. They serve as the main places for social activities for community members and support jobs linked to their use.

Over the recent years, these community buildings, many of which are old and off the mains gas grid, have grappled with mounting energy bills and heating challenges.

However, campaign organisers, including local charity Action Hampshire, perceive a significant potential for these concerns to set in motion wider action against climate change.

During Village Halls Week 2024, management committees were prompted to discuss 'go green' strategies. Their goal was not only to ensure their sustainability, but to also safeguard the larger environment.

The campaign saw the release of a new design guide by Stagg Architects via a livestream on March 18, providing advice on how to retrofit halls to reduce their energy consumption and dependence on fossil fuels.

The guide spotlights six halls that improved insulation, replaced heating systems and commenced generating their own electricity.

The recent announcement by the Chancellor on a £5 million increase in grant funding for the Spring Budget is expected to support more communities to undertake similar environmentally-conscious initiatives.

Furthermore, the campaign encouraged village halls to engage with environmentally conscious groups and introduce green initiatives such as repair clubs, conservation volunteers and refill stations.

Last week, over 250 village halls across England, including at least 8 in Hampshire, held open days and events to showcase their engagement in the campaign.

Local residents had the opportunity to understand more about these initiatives and the 'green' plans for their respective village halls.

In Test Valley, Sherfield English Village Hall highlighted their efforts towards the ‘3 R’s’ - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, during Village Halls Week.

The hall uses energy-efficient lighting and when replacing bulbs, they opt for the most efficient option.

The committee was also donated long strips of cloth bunting for events, promoting reuse and recycling as much waste as possible from events and activities.

Two community buildings in the New Forest have supported new environmental activities.

The Greyfriars Centre in Ringwood is hosting their inaugural Repair Café on April 27 from 10am to 12pm, offering to prolong the life of household items.

Brockenhurst Village Hall conducted an independent energy audit to reduce energy usage, with solar panels and a storage battery already installed last year.

A member of the ACRE Network, Action Hampshire delivers advice and support to local village hall groups.