Mayor opens refurbished scout hut in Mill Pool Woods

On Saturday 23rd September the Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Stuart Davis, officially opened 1st Solihull Scout Group’s refurbished hut in Mill Pool Woods.

Known as the Simon Wilcox Building, the hut was named after the nephew of the group’s first Scout Master, Gordon Wilcox, who bought and bequeathed the land in 1950.

Having been neglected for years, the decision was made to raise the money and completely refurbish the building.

Several children from within the group have undertaken challenges to raise money including sponsored walks and swims.

They also took a ‘DIY SOS’ approach, whereby local and national companies donated materials.

After a long journey of fundraising, supporters and volunteers came together to celebrate their hard work and to have a look around the newly refurbished building.

Companies and trusts that donated materials and money to the project were also invited, including Solihull Council who donated £1,000 towards improving the community facility.

The Mayor said: ‘I was delighted to officially open the newly refurbished scout hut and be a part of such a lovely day.

“Everyone has worked so hard to make this site accessible to the public and it was clear to see the community spirit and dedication put in to improve such beautiful grounds.’

With 18 acres of woods to explore, the opening day was filled with lots of fun activities for all the family, including guided tours, book stalls, archery and a BBQ.

With the changes made, the building now has a disabled toilet and ramp access and will be both thermally and energy efficient, making the building cheaper to run and benefiting the environment.

If you wish to find out about the site and to donate money to the project, visit their website: https://www.buildingbettercommunities.co.uk/regional_entry/simon-wilcox-building-renovation/

Read more: http://www.solihull.gov.uk/news/ArtMID/820/ArticleID/1861/Mayor-opens-refurbished-Scout-Hut