Visitors to historic Southwick Community Centre will benefit from an improved facility once heritage specialist Pilbeam Construction completes a crucial revamp in early May this year.

New windows and damp proofing, combined with internal and external refurbishment will transform the important community building into a more welcoming space.

Founded in 1945, Southwick Community Centre is one of the oldest community centres in the country.

The complex was originally derelict 16th-century farm buildings, including a barn, stables and piggeries.

Pilbeam Construction commercial manager Matt Hayler said: “It’s a pleasure for us to be working on Southwick Community Centre, a project that’s very close to home for our team and for me personally, as I live just around the corner.

“The centre brings so much to the local community, so we’re proud to support a building that plays such an important role for local people.

“With much of the centre remaining open throughout, we’ll ensure the work is carefully managed, clearly communicated and safely separated from visitors to minimise disruption.”

Work is due to start on April 1 and complete in early May, with specialist timber windows supplied by Ventrolla.

Pilbeam will work closely with the conservation officer to ensure the specialist windows match the existing ones precisely.

The £150k scheme will include installing replacement windows to the Barn Café and the George Porter Room, as the current windows are beyond repair. Drainage work will combat internal damp problems.

The café will be shut for two weeks to allow the work to be completed.

Southwick Community Centre manager Jayne Routley said: “Our centre hosts a vast array of activities with 50 different groups which bring our community together so it’s vital we provide a more comfortable space for them.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming our neighbours Pilbeam Construction and seeing their heritage construction skills at work.

“We know construction causes disruption to visitors, but the results will be worth the very short wait.”

Pilbeam Construction has previously worked for Adur and Worthing Councils, which owns the community centre, on projects at Worthing Town Hall and Worthing Theatres and Museum.

For more information please visit: https://www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk/

For more information about the community centre please visit: https://southwickcommunitycentre.org.uk/