The Douglas Swire Memorial Hall, commonly known as Longden Village Hall, was built in 1923 by Jessie and William Swire in memory of their son Douglas Swire and conveyed, together with the surrounding grounds, to the people of the Parish of Longden in 1955.

For almost a hundred years it has served our community well, providing a place where we and our families have come together to socialise, exercise, celebrate and console. It is an essential part of the fabric of our community, enhancing our lives from cradle to grave.

The current custodial and charity trustees are fully committed to ensuring that the Hall goes on serving the community through the next 100 years until 2123 and beyond. However, although our lives and community now are very different from what they were in 1923 the Village Hall is not. It is most definitely looking its age. Whilst we love and want to keep its 1920’s character and features we need to make sure it is fit for purpose now and for the future.

We are, therefore, planning a major refurbishment for its centenary year to provide new toilets and kitchen and an additional meeting room. There will also be a new wheelchair-accessible side entrance to replace the current back entrance and a separate accessible toilet. Our well-loved main hall and stage will remain much as they are now although we will also be looking to improve comfort and functionality throughout.