Selsey Pavilion wins AHF backing

We are pleased to announce that we have received significant backing from the Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF).

The AHF exists to help communities find enterprising ways to revitalise the old buildings they love. Through their "Transforming Places through Heritage" grant programme, they support projects with the potential to transform high streets and town centres in England.

The grant, totalling £15,000, will support developing a robust community-led feasibility study business plan and fundraising strategy, an important stage if the Trust’s aspirations of returning the Pavilion to community use are to be realised.

Our chairman and Selsey resident Christian Skelton stresses just how vital AHF backing is for the long-term aspirations of the Trust:

“I cannot stress how important having the AHF onboard is for our community and this project. Whilst this is the start of a long and challenging journey, this grant enables us to take the first step to get going and help set the vision for this great community venture. We truly believe the Selsey Pavilion can be the jewel in the crown of Selsey – just as it was 100 years ago: a vibrant mixed-use community hub for all: heritage, the arts, children and family activities, the lot!”

“The AHF has already helped hundreds of projects similar to ours and returned many historic buildings to community use. To receive their backing at this early stage demonstrates the potential of the Selsey Pavilion building. If we can demonstrate the viability of acquiring and restoring the Pavilion, along with long term sustainability, we will be in an excellent position to move forwards and begin to return the Pavilion to its proper use. It’s a very exciting step!”

Laura Williams, Programme Officer for the Architectural Heritage Fund commented:

“The Architectural Heritage Fund’s ‘Transforming Places through Heritage’ programme aims to bring new life to our high streets by finding creative uses for empty or underused old buildings. We are delighted to support the Selsey Pavilion Trust in their efforts to restore and re-open this landmark building in the town.”

The next stage of the project will be to formally appoint architects, cost consultants and business planners, details of which will be released soon. We intend to complete this feasibility study by the end of summer 2021.