Windows Upgrade at The Centre, Tollesbury Community Association, Essex

Tollesbury Community Association is a charitable organisation responsible for managing a large Victorian congregational church, repurposed as a community centre for the benefit of local residents, known as The Centre. This project aims to improve the facility by replacing the single-glazed windows in the School Room with double-glazed alternatives. The School Room, which is frequently used due to its proximity to the kitchen, serves as a community café alongside the twice-weekly food bank and functions as a designated “warm space.” However, its current windows make the room cold and less energy efficient. Upgrading them will enhance comfort, reduce energy consumption, and improve the overall usability of the space.

The centre is home to a wide range of community groups and activities, including a food bank, youth group, Alcoholics Anonymous Fellowship, Acoustic Group, Children’s Art Club, Ancestry Group, Book Talk, Diabetic Awareness Group, Home Start, Pre-School, Silver Threads, Tai Chi, Tollesbury Amateur Players, Tollytots Toddler Group, Tolleywood Film Club, Watercolour Workshop, Workers Education Association, Yoga, Congregational Church Services, and Messy Church.

Through its wide range of activities and inclusive approach, The centre plays a vital role in fostering community engagement and providing essential services to residents. The proposed improvements will ensure the facility remains a warm, welcoming, and energy-efficient space for all users.

Environmental considerations: The installation of new double-glazed windows will enhance the building’s energy efficiency by improving insulation, reducing heat loss, and minimising overall energy consumption. This upgrade will contribute to a more sustainable and comfortable environment for all users of the facility.

Hard to reach considerations: The centre is committed to providing essential services for underrepresented members of the community, including those accessing the food bank, Alcoholics Anonymous, and pre-school programs. By offering a welcoming and supportive environment, the facility ensures that individuals from diverse backgrounds have access to vital resources and opportunities for social engagement.