As Lyme Green grows, the need for places to meet, take part and find support grows with it. The proposed community hall on London Road is an opportunity to create a shared local resource—shaped by residents and designed to complement what already exists.
A hall designed for today’s needs
Lyme Green Community Hall CIO was established to take forward a modern, inclusive hall on land being made available by Vistry Homes. The charity’s purpose is to support social welfare, recreation and community life for Lyme Green, Sutton Parish and neighbouring parts of Macclesfield.
The ambition is broader than a building. It is about making everyday opportunities easier to reach: a group close to home, a welcoming place to meet neighbours, or a practical service delivered somewhere familiar and accessible.
Working alongside existing venues
Some residents have asked whether a new hall would duplicate local facilities. The business plan developed with Cheshire Connect sets out a complementary approach. The intention is to focus on community-centred activities and signpost groups to nearby halls when a different space is more suitable.
Listening to existing organisations is part of that process. The CIO has been working with Cheshire East Council departments, Peaks & Plains Housing Trust, Sutton Community Fridge, Cre8 and Wheelies Sport and Activity Club to explore how the building might support practical services, community initiatives and inclusive activities.
Those discussions could help shape cost-of-living support, wellbeing programmes, accessible sport and social opportunities. They are exploratory conversations, not a confirmed programme of services.
Listening to a growing community
New surveys have been distributed to local households and information sheets shared through social media. The recent consultation, supported by councillors from Cheshire East and Macclesfield Town, has received 322 responses, with strong interest and a wide range of views about how the hall could be used.
This is separate from the earlier 2024 resident survey. Keeping the two exercises distinct helps us explain what each tells us without mixing figures from different consultations.
Ideas so far include art groups, dance classes, bingo, toddler groups, exercise, wheelchair sports, farmers markets, PCSO surgeries, health hubs and first aid training. That breadth of interest is useful: it helps test how flexible the building needs to be, which facilities matter and what residents would actually use.
Thank you to local supporters
Progress has depended on the generosity of local businesses, organisations, residents and volunteers. The CIO would like to thank Vistry Homes, Holdcroft Hyundai, Morris Homes, Lyme Green MOT Centre, Shell Garage, HKO Vehicles, Cheshire Paint Repair, Hulley Road MOT Centre, Sutton Parish Council, L&J Print, Park 4All @ Lyme Green, Cyril Benson’s swimathon and Pour Moi, alongside everyone who has given time, money or practical help.
A special thank-you goes to Isaac, a young supporter from Bollin Grange who donated some of his pocket money. Support comes in many forms, and each contribution helps build momentum.
Fundraising and the next stage
Fundraising discussions have been taking place with the Rotary Club, Macclesfield Masonic Lodges and Lyme Green Bowling Club. Plans have also been developing for a children’s fun run at Ash Grove Primary School, supported by local MP Tim Roca, with medals funded by a volunteer. Andrew from HKO Vehicles has been planning a charity parachute jump after poor weather caused a postponement.
These are the plans described in this August update, rather than a current events calendar. Please contact the team for the latest arrangements.
Preparing for planning
The immediate fundraising focus is the work needed to complete the planning stage: professional design, plans, surveys and preparation of the application. Construction is a later phase and depends on the decisions, permissions and funding needed to deliver the hall responsibly.
The CIO is keen to hear from a local architect who may be interested in supporting the design. It is also inviting discussions with one or more benefactors about underwriting a planning-stage shortfall of up to £5,000, with the possibility of naming a room in recognition of their contribution. Any arrangement would need to be discussed and agreed with the charity.
Be part of the conversation
Whether you have an idea for an activity, a useful professional skill, a fundraising proposal or a question about the project, we would welcome hearing from you. Email contact@lymegreen.org.uk or follow “Lyme Green Community Hall” on Facebook to request the latest newsletter.
Explore ways to support the hall · See the early plans
Project update dated 6 August 2026. Proposals, fundraising plans and partnerships described here reflect the update supplied for that date and may develop over time.
