Project Director: Tom Archer
Project Duration: 2019

Every ten years, since 1988, ACRE has conducted a survey of village halls and rural community buildings. This has provided key insights into such issues as the economic impact of such assets, their environmental sustainability, their physical condition, their management and changes in their use. ACRE re-run the survey in 2020, updating the evidence collected in 2008.

CRESR undertook a detailed analysis of the data arising from the 2020 survey. The final report highlights significant changes in the profile of halls, their environmental impact, their importance to local economies and how those halls are used. The report and analysis will provide the platform for ACRE’s support and advocacy for village halls in the years to come.

Early in 2021 CRESR was commissioned by ACRE - with funding from DEFRA – to explore the impact of COVID19 on the operations and finances of halls. The research has helped build a better understanding of how the pandemic affected halls - notably in terms of their improvement plans, finances and services. The research also offered insights into their future support and funding needs.