Where is the current Scout HQ?
It is on Empingham Road in Stamford (accessed via a driveway between number 29 and 31) and provides a meeting place for all sections of the 2nd Stamford Town Scout group.
Why do you need a new Scout HQ?
The current building is in very poor condition due to its age, it is too small, there is no disability access, and it no longer meets the needs of modern Scouting. We have a waiting list of 80 which we cannot address with our current small facilities.
Why can’t you spruce up the existing Scout HQ?
It is too small, has no disabled access and is multi-level. Structurally it is in poor condition with rot, woodworm, damp and many other issues; it is beyond a simple renovation.
What happened to the original plans for the new Scout HQ?
This project started in 2020, and the original design was granted planning permission in 2022, but due to a huge increase in the projected building cost we had to change the design to reduce the cost and bring it within a realistic and achievable fundraising target. We are confident that the new design gives us everything we need, and we can raise the funds required.
Do you have planning permission?
Yes. Planning permission was granted in August 2024.
How much will a new Scout HQ cost?
The first estimate from the architects is £1.5 million. When we are further along with the project it will go out to formal tender and construction companies can tender for doing the work, giving us a more exact cost.
Why does it cost so much?
The existing HQ needs demolishing and rebuilding from scratch, including filling in the existing basement. It will provide a sustainable, environmentally friendly building that will last for the next 100 years. It will have 2 large halls so we can accept more members. It will also enable other community groups in Stamford to benefit from the new facilities.
How will it be funded?
The sale of our other HQ at Drift Avenue (also in poor condition) will provide about 20% of the cost. National and local grants will be the main source of funding, along with commercial sponsorship. Our own local fundraising will be taking place so all our members and their families and friends, as well as the local community, have an opportunity to be part of the project.
Is there a demand for it?
Yes, definitely! Our group is one of the largest in the area and has a big waiting list; with more space we can accept more members. There is also a lack of venues for the local community with suitable access and facilities to use for meetings and events.
Will it be environmentally friendly and sustainable?
Yes, we have had all the relevant environmental surveys completed for the planning application. The new building will have a ‘green roof’, heat pumps, solar panels, modern insulation and double glazing. No trees will need to be cut down. Once built we will be landscaping the grass area to make the most of nature areas. The dilapidated stone wall boundary will be replaced with hedgerow.
When will it be built?
We must raise 85-90% of the funding before we can start building, hopefully we will reach this target by 2026; then building can begin! The target is to re-open in May 2027.
How long will it take to do the building work?
It is estimated to take 6-9 months in total from demolition to moving back in.
What will happen to Scout meetings while it is being built?
Scouting is very resilient and can adapt to carry on Scouting, just like we did during Covid! Scouting will carry on at alternative places; we have a list of available venues that can be used. Many scouting activities can be done ‘off site’, in fields, woodland, leisure centres, and local facilities.
Will there be a car park?
Yes, there will be a car park for 9 vehicles, with disabled parking and a ‘drop off’ point for parents to easily drop children by the door. There will be a bike rack to encourage cycling, and a footpath around the car park. The car park will be lit and have CCTV.
Will it still have outdoor space?
The building will be bigger, but we will still have plenty of outdoor space for activities, a forest school area, campfire circle and camping. There will also be undercover patio areas so that whatever the weather we can still be outside. There is an outdoor toilet and shower. Once the building is completed, we can improve the outdoor space further.
Is it just for Scouts?
No, but Scouting activities, meetings and camping will be prioritised. The premises will be available for hire during the day and weekends up to 10pm for local groups/classes/meetings, also for children’s parties. Late night ‘non scouting’ events after 10pm (6pm on Sundays) are not allowed as it is in a residential area.
Who owns the land?
The 2nd Stamford Town Scouts Group own the land. We have owned the land for over 40 years.
Will it have disabled access?
Yes, it will, it will all be on one level with easy access, wide doors, disabled toilet & baby changing. There will be a disabled parking space and undercover area to park mobility scooters. The kitchen will have a worktop with adjustable height. This makes the building accessible for all and means we can offer Scouting to children and adults with disabilities; our current building is simply not suitable.
Who pays for the running of the new building?
Scouting is funded from our membership fees, some of which goes towards the running of the building. Hiring out the building for ‘non-Scouting’ purposes will also raise more revenue. Many of the overheads will be reduced using solar panels and heat pumps so overall running costs should be lower.
How does it help the community?
Scouting provides a program for four - 25-year-olds, this provides something for children and young adults locally. It will be available for local community and sports groups to use. The new Scout HQ will be registered as a ‘Resilience’ centre, this means if there’s an emergency (flooding, fire, terrorism etc) it will be open to offer help, support and accommodation to those in need.
Who can be a Scout? Can girls join?
Scouting runs a full program for four - 25-year-olds. It is open to everyone; all genders, all faiths and all abilities, Scouting is fully inclusive. There are also adult leaders, who are all volunteers, and supporters. We are always looking for adults to help either working with the children as a leader/helper, or to do maintenance, accounts, PR, fundraising etc.
How can I help?
There are many ways you can help! We are always looking for volunteers to help with the fundraising activities. Any donations of prizes etc are always welcome. Companies can donate or offer sponsorship and support. Many employers offer fund-matching schemes, local grants, charity funding and volunteering schemes which you can apply for.
How do I donate?
To make a donation – Please scan the QR code or visit our website.