A Community Benefit Society set up formally in 2013 but in existence since 2002 with a mission to establish Wolverton as a thriving and sustainable town within the city of Milton Keynes has completed the restoration and renovation of its first heritage asset The Old School.
The Old School is a Grade 2 listed building located in the heart of the community of Old Wolverton, Milton Keynes. Over the last 5 years Future Wolverton has raised over £800,000 including grants and a social investment loan of £110,000 from the AHF to purchase and refurbish the Old School to bring it back into community use.
Initial phased opening of the Old School scheduled from March will consist of a 3 bedroom Guest House along side a community space for hire and a Community Café to provide a focal point for the Old Wolverton community. This will enable residents to meet up and socialise, and participate in community activities. Future Wolverton is also working in partnership with adjoining SEN school to offer practical skills and qualifications from hospitality to landscaping maintenance for its students.
The building will generate an ongoing income to provide long term sustainability for the organisation.
Commenting on the investment, Matthew McKeague, CEO of the AHF said:
“The old school is a great mix of heritage and social impact. Future Wolverton have ambitious plans for their town and this will be a key asset for them in achieving their long term goals. I am extremely pleased AHF has been able to support them alongside a range of other partners.”
Find out more about the project here http://futurewolverton.org/old-school-project/
Editor’s notes
1) The Architectural Heritage Fund is a registered charity, working since 1976 to promote the conservation and sustainable re-use of historic buildings for the benefit of communities across the UK, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas. We are the leading heritage social investor and the only specialist heritage lender operating in the UK. We provide advice, development grants and loans.
2) For media enquiries please contact Oliver Brodrick Ward, on 020 79250199 / oliver.brodrick-ward@ahfund.org.uk
