Ampfield amplified as new funding boosts community facilities
Ampfield is celebrating a wave of improvements to its much‑loved community spaces, following a series of successful funding bids made possible through close partnership working between Ampfield Parish Council, Test Valley Borough Council and local councillors.
Over recent months, the parish has taken forward an ambitious programme of works designed to protect well‑used buildings, enhance green areas and strengthen the village’s long‑term resilience. The most significant project is the forthcoming repair of the village hall roof, supported through a £22,175 Community Delivery Fund award. Years of damp and condensation have taken their toll on the building, and the planned repairs - due to take place over Easter to minimise disruption - will protect the structure while introducing much better insulation to improve energy efficiency.
The parish has also been working with the borough on a number of smaller but equally important projects that support everyday community life. A councillor community grant from Councillor Sally Yalden has funded a new heated cabinet for the village hall defibrillator, ensuring the equipment remains fully operational during cold weather and ready to use whenever needed. A second councillor grant has supported new signage for walkers in Chapel Wood and the installation of dragons’ teeth at Morleys Green and the recreation ground, helping to protect green spaces and prevent damage to car park lighting.
Ampfield has also embraced new environmental opportunities through the Rural England Prosperity Fund. Working with the TVBC countryside team, the parish has received ten fruit trees and wildflower seeds for a growing orchard area, creating a richer habitat for wildlife and a welcoming spot that residents will be able to enjoy and harvest from in years to come.
In addition to the wider improvements, the community has also benefitted from a dedicated battery storage pack funded through a £1,000 community resilience grant. This back‑up system supports critical power needs during any disruption to the wider network, ensuring the village hall can continue to operate as a trusted hub when residents need it most. The investment strengthens Ampfield’s emergency preparedness and offers reassurance that essential services can keep running even in challenging circumstances.
Alongside this, the parish is taking steps to improve the energy efficiency and resilience of the sports pavilion. A £10,000 climate change grant, supported by additional external funding, will contribute towards solar panels, battery storage, a gateway and a solar diverter. Once installed, the system will generate clean energy, reduce running costs and allow the pavilion to operate as a resilience hub thanks to its new storage capacity.
Together, these projects reflect a shared commitment to investing in the heart of the community and ensuring Ampfield’s buildings and green spaces remain welcoming, sustainable and resilient.
These improvements will have a real impact on everyday life in Ampfield. The village hall and pavilion are used by a wide range of local groups, from social clubs and sports teams to community events and children’s activities, and the upgrades will help keep these spaces warm, safe and welcoming throughout the year. The enhancements to Chapel Woods, Morleys Green and the orchard area will also support people’s wellbeing by protecting much‑loved green spaces and creating new opportunities for residents to enjoy nature close to home. The early results from the pavilion’s new solar system show just how meaningful these changes are in practice, with more than 1,000 kWh of clean energy already generated and almost £200 saved in the first month alone. The new hot water diverter has removed the need for Calor Gas to heat water, and exporting surplus electricity to the grid will soon provide additional income once registration is complete. Together, these projects form a programme of work that strengthens community life now, supports long‑term resilience and leaves a positive legacy for future generations.
Bryan Nanson, Chairman of Ampfield Parish Council said; “Ampfield’s volunteers and groups work incredibly hard to look after our community spaces, so it’s wonderful to see that effort being matched with real investment. These grants will make a lasting difference for residents, from improving our village hall and pavilion to protecting our green areas and enhancing our orchard. We’re grateful for the strong partnership with Test Valley Borough Council and our local councillors, whose support has helped us achieve so much for the village.”
Councillor Sally Yalden, ward councillor for Ampfield and Braishfield said; “Ampfield is a community that cares deeply about its shared spaces and the wellbeing of its residents. I’m pleased to have supported these projects, particularly the upgraded cabinet for the village defibrillator, which is such an important piece of lifesaving equipment. The improvements to Chapel Woods, Morleys Green and the recreation ground will also make a real difference to people who enjoy these areas every day. It’s great to see so much progress happening locally.”
Councillor Stewart MacDonald, portfolio holder for community led projects, said; “Ampfield is a brilliant example of what can happen when a parish has a clear vision for its community spaces and we work together to make it happen. The Community Delivery Fund is designed to back exactly this kind of ambition - helping places test new ideas, learn from what works and grow stronger as a result. From repairing and improving the village hall, to investing in the sports pavilion, enhancing green spaces and supporting everyday resilience, these projects reflect a genuine partnership focused on what matters most to residents. The benefits will be felt long into the future, leaving a lasting legacy that strengthens community life and supports Ampfield for many years to come. It’s been inspiring to see the parish’s plans come to life, and we’re proud to be part of a community that puts people at the heart of everything it does.”
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