The much-loved former Marine Training Centre is being brought back to life by local people as Hengistbury Head Outdoors (HHO). Supported by a significant UK Government Community Ownership Fund grant and a 99-year lease from the council.
HHO will be a year-round hub reconnecting people to nature on land and on water, offering affordable, accessible activities for children, families and older people. From watersports and outdoor learning to wellbeing sessions and community gatherings. The centre is now in its final stages of renovations.The project aims to full open their doors in spring pending donations and community share investment.
Chair of Hengistbury Head Outdoors, Mark Merritt, said: “I’m passionate about bringing the old Marine Training Centre back to life and making it thrive again. With the help of a talented team and an incredible group of volunteers, we’re turning possibility into reality. I truly believe this will be a joy for individuals, families and friends for generations to come.”
A gala fundraising dinner and auction is taking place at The Captain’s Club Hotel, Christchurch on the 14th of March. Over £750,000 has already been raised, with 60+ community shareholders and more than 1,000 members and supporters backing the project. It will be a Community Benefit Society, meaning all surpluses earned will be reinvested back into the community not paid out as profits.
HHO has upcoming open days ahead of the full opening to offer a first look at the centre, the work that has been done, a chance to meet the team and try wellbeing tasters. There will be a family day on Saturday the 28th of March and an adult only open day on Sunday the 29th of March. There are more ways to get involved through volunteering and giving goods or services, for more information on volunteering and donations visit their website at hengistbury.org