1st Knutsford Scout Group, Cheshire – New Scout H.Q. (006267)

The project is to rebuild an existing 1930’s Scout Hut, which is in a state of dilapidation and no longer fit for purpose, either for the members of the existing uniformed organisations, nor for the many potential future users from the wider community.

During the last five years, there has been a 17% growth in the number of young people joining the local Scouts, Guides, Brownies & Rainbow Groups, such that the collective membership now exceeds 500 young people.

Over the next 12 years, the Cheshire East Local Plan has allocated land for an additional 1,000 new homes to be built within Knutsford; therefore, the demand for a new community facility can only be expected to grow further over that period.

Unfortunately, the applicants have already reached a point where they are having to turn young people away and the growth in membership, as well as of other community organisations, are being restricted by the limitations of the existing building.