Historic building in Telford to get a £75,000 makeover
A historic Telford building, which houses a much-loved ballroom, has been given a £75,000 grant.
The Anstice Memorial building in Madeley has received the grant from the Veolia Environmental Trust.
Built in 1870 to honour respected mine owner, industrialist and philanthropist John Anstice, the building has been key to the fabric of the community throughout its history.
Over the years The Anstice building became the home to Madeley Library, Lloyds Bank, a dentist, Madeley Rest Room and also provided a place for entertainment, education and socialising.
Anstice Square, which is overlooked by the memorial hall, became a popular gathering place for outdoor Madeley celebrations such as coronations, carnivals and parades.
In its heyday the Anstice Ballroom was famous for having ‘the best sprung floor outside Blackpool’. Lots of Madeley couples have fond memories of meeting and courting at The Anstice and club membership peaked at almost 3,000 in the early 70s.
Unfortunately the building, which was once a working men’s club as well as housing a library and a bank, declined in use for some years.
Lift
The grant will be used to install a lift and disabled toilet facilities, enabling modern standards to be met and allowing access for all.
The refurbishment is being led by owners Madeley Town Council with Anstice Community Trust.
Lyndy Boden, Chair of Anstice Community Trust, said: “The Anstice community trust (ACT) are absolutely delighted to receive this fantastic news regarding the funding from Veolia for very important improvements here at The Anstice.
“This funding will enable us to move forward in great lengths, by supplying the building with a lift and disabled toilets, really bringing the building into the 21st century and enabling everyone to access the Ballroom for different functions and events; very exciting times for The Anstice and the community.
“It has been a long time coming but now things are finally coming together.”
