The Huby Playing Fields Association’s old pavilion was condemned in 2020 due to health and safety concerns.
The community in Huby, just north of York, has faced ‘several challenges’ since then, including lockdowns, rising costs, and asbestos found in the old building.
The condemned building has now been demolished and a new pavilion is set to be constructed, with a £350 grant from Broadacres Community Development Fund contributing towards the £300,000 total cost.
Simon Bullough, the association’s chairman, said: “We’ve had help from a wide range of bodies including local councils, businesses and charities and every little helps.”
The village near York has grown from 1,200 to 1,500 residents, prompting a council report to conclude a ‘desperate’ need for a community resource.
Mr Bullough said: “The pavilion is a vital resource for the community.
“If you lose that you lose the sports clubs, the community gatherings and the hub that brings the village together.
“The growth of the village makes the need for social infrastructure even greater and with the old building demolished and planning application in for the new pavilion the community can see that, after years of discussion, something is now happening.”
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The new pavilion will feature a ‘traditional design’, with a clock tower and bi-fold doors opening onto the playing fields.
Inside, there will be a community space, kitchen and bar, and changing rooms for junior and adult teams.
Mr Bullough said: “We expect the first spade in the ground for the new pavilion by the New Year and hopefully an opening by Christmas 2025.”