Many constituents are opposed to the HS2 project, and I share their concerns about value for money as well as the hugely negative impact on our local area. 

Nevertheless Local residents may be pleased to see that funding from the HS2 Community and Environment Fund will benefit two projects in Sulgrave and Byfield. 

CEF funding: £ 75,000

Applicant: Sulgrave Parochial Church Council

Location: Sulgrave, Northamptonshire

Sulgrave Parochial Church Council is the Parochial Church Council for the Church of St James the Less in Sulgrave, Northamptonshire.

The CEF funding will be used to refurbish and upgrade the church hall, which is over 100 years old, and provide new disabled toilet facilities. The project will benefit the whole community by providing a social hub for the village.

Byfield Village Hall Renovation 

CEF funding: £ 33,267

Applicant: Byfield Village Hall

Location: Byfield, Northamptonshire

Byfield Village Hall is a Registered Charity located in Byfield, Northamptonshire.

The aim of this CEF funded project is to complete four small renovation projects as part of one larger improvement plan for the village hall. This includes:

• Improving the main hall area by providing more ambient lighting and replacing the current seating.

• Improving access to a storage cupboard for hall furniture in the main hall by providing a new double door opening.

• Reviving the use of and interest in the stage and stage annex, which were once used extensively by local groups and visiting professionals. The stage annex is a multipurpose area curtained off from the main hall which will be furnished to reflect use as a green room, small meeting room, or quiet area off a main event in the village hall.

• Improving access and use of the loft area at the far end of the hall. This can then be used as a projection room for a film club.