Does anyone know what's happening with the Shaftesbury Tavern aka tin tabernacle? I believe that the Samaritans are looking for funding to refurbish it but that's as far as it's gone.

How strongly do local people want it as a community resource? I certainly think we need something to act as a community focus – presumably that was its original purpose when all the surrounding railway workers' cottages were built? I think a locus for the immediate area is sadly lacking. The Samaritans could hire it out to groups etc which would benefit them and local activities. 

If there isn't enough local support the enterprise may falter. If we want it, we need to support it – leafletting? crowd funding? And it is such a wonderful building! I'm amazed it's not listed. 

If anyone has any updates I'd be interested to know.

Diana