LATEST NEWS
Due to a fire in the roof of the cafe, the shop and cafe are currently closed.
We will be re-opening on Wednesday 6th March 2024.
See below for news and updates.
Update from 16th January 2024
Progress towards opening the interim shop has continued on track this week, with rewiring and painting taking place this week. We held a social for our volunteers last night. It was a great turnout with over 50 people and it was so good to come together and catch up as well as share the plans for the interim shop, cafe and kitchen. The 3-D virtual model that Kris had created really helped to imagine what it will be like.
Our next event will the Winter Warmer evening on 25th Janaury at the Mac Hall for which we still have a few places avalable, so book now (cafe@bandhvillageshop.uk) if you want to come! This will start at 7.30pm with a great 3 course menu for £27.00 including VAT. Drinks will also be available to purchase. We ask you to please choose your menu when you book so we know what to make to prevent waste.
Starter: Prawn Cocktail or Greek Salad
Mains: Hearty Beef Stew or Mushroom Bourguignon
Dessert: Chocolate Torte or Pecan Pie
Thanks and have a great weekend!
The Management and Committee
Update from 3rd November 2023
Been another week with not so much progress. Having received the structural engineers report at the end of last week, the information about reinstatement work involved has been issued to our temporary works contactor and loss adjustor for pricing and approving. We are still waiting feedback regarding options for a temporary shop and café and also are still waiting for the forensic report.
Alongside this activity, we have been starting to discuss the possible longer term strategy for the building, i.e. beyond the reinstatement due to fire damage are there other updates we might want to think about, how could we approach funding for these and what might be possible timeframes. As outlined at the public meeting in the summer, the timing for these is well into the future so that we don't delay the reinstatement and we will be sure to engage in the coming months.
We are hoping for more progress in the coming weeks and will be sure to share!
BHVSA Management and Committee
Update from 27th October 2023
The main development is that the structural engineers report has been completed and issued in the last few hours. It appears that the main structural work be limited to the café end of building although there are a few additional comments that will need input from an oak frame specialist. With our loss adjuster on holiday this week, we have not been able to progress further discussions regarding options for a temporary shop and café but we hope that on his return we will be able to make progress in this area next week. We also are still waiting to hear the outcomes from the forensic investigation.
Thanks
BHVSA Management and Committee
Update from 20th October 2023
Seems less to report this week as works on the stripping and assessment is continuing with no major news or outcomes yet. The building and temporary roofing does seem to have survived the recent heavy rains!
Building: Damaged building fabric continues to be removed from the building, several skips have been filled over the last week or so. All the roofing under the temporary roof has now been stripped as well as plasterboard in several areas. Our structural engineer has also visited this week and is currently assessing what work would be required to stabilize the building so it would be safe to be occupied as a temporary shop and café whilst the major work is carried out. We should get the results of the survey and recommendations in the next week or so which will enable us to finally start to understand the extent of work required to get our building back!
Insurance: We are still waiting to hear the outcomes of the forensics assessment, we will update you when we have any news.
Coffee mornings: These continue to be held at the MacHall (10-12 on a Wednesday)
Thanks
BHVSA Management and Committee
Update from 13th October 2023
Building: The striping out of damaged fabric has continued this week. The atrium space above the cafe is now closed off at the first floor level and celling level with additional scaffolding for the safety of contractor staff who are now removing more of the roof and walls. This work needs to be completed to enable us to have, what is likely to be a key meeting between our structural engineer and loss adjustor to enable the extent of rebuilding to be discussed. Our discussions with the loss adjustor regarding temporary facilities so that we can have some form of shop and cafe open during the main rebuilding work continue.
Coffee morning: After a week off it was really nice to have a coffee morning this week and the next one will be on Wednesday 18th.
Update from 6th October 2023
Building: The contractor has started striping out damaged fabric this week. The focus this week has been on the ground floor, and damaged fabric (including the plasterboard ceiling) has been stripped from the cafe, kitchen and about half of the shop. This stripping will continue next week with a meeting between our structural engineer and the loss adjuster shortly afterwards which will enable the extent of rebuilding to be discussed.
Insurance: Following receiving an interim payment for business interruption a few weeks ago, the framework for our business interruption insurance claim has now been agreed and the balance of our first quarterly payment will be paid next week.
Show for the Shop: We are immensely grateful to everyone who organised, participated and attended the show for the shop last Saturday. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did including Kris' limerick!
Coffee morning: After a week off, we are planning another coffee morning on Wednesday 11th 10-12 in the Mac.
Thanks
BHVSA Management and Committee
Update from 29th September 2023
Another weekly update for you all:
Building: Following the completion of the on-site forensics and debris clearance last week, we are still waiting for final approvals for dismantling of damaged building fabric. However during this week, the scope of this work has become clearer and is expected to include stripping out ceiling, part of the roof, kitchen, cafe, toilets, some solar panels, gable end timber cladding and the mezzanine above the cafe. We are also pricing for approval our current plans for a temporary kitchen and cafe which will also require approval from the loss adjuster.
Coffee mornings: After great attendance this week please note that there isn't a coffee morning next week so the next one will be Wednesday 11th (10-12) in the Mac Hall.
Show for the Shop: Don't forget the fundraising show for the shop on Saturday night (30th September). Indications are it will be a good night, Kris has got his act ready. Tickets are available on the door 6:30 for 7. More details are in the September Village news and there are posters on lamp posts around the village. Donations will be going to the shop improvement fund.
Update from 22nd September 2023
Another weekly update for you all:
Building: The on site forensic investigation activities concluded this week which has enabled contractors to start their activities. The café has been cleared of debris and next week the dismantling of damaged building fabric will start which will allow a structural assessment. The outcomes of assessment will be key for understanding what is required to get back to a fully functioning building, shop and café. We are continuing to engage with the insurer about options for some form of temporary café and shop arrangement and will share once options are clearer.
Coffee mornings: These are continuing, so if you want to have an opportunity to catch up somewhere dry, Wednesday mornings 10-12 in the Mac Hall.
Show for the Shop: Hopefully you have all seen the adverts for what should be a fun evening (6:30 for 7 September 30th in the Mac Hall). More details are in the September Village news and have heard that there are posters on lamp posts around the village.
Thanks
Village Shop Management and Committee
Update from 15th September 2023
Building: The forensic inspector has spent time this week sifting through the fire debris and once this is completed, our contractor can mobilise to pull back all fire damaged material. It is provisionally planned for this to be middle of next week. We are still looking at and costing options for a temporary shop and cafe, potentially within part of the building, whilst work on rebuilding other parts is conducted. Over the next few weeks to hope to better understand the activities that might be required to enable this and therefore possible timescales. Once we have more information on this we will share.
Coffee mornings: These continue and the next one will be held next Wednesday 10-12 at the MacHall. If you want to help please contact Ferne.
Pizza: The wood fired pizza van will in the shop car park Saturday evening between 5:30 and 7:30. Please call ahead to place your order to guarantee availability. 07540 700710. The menu is on our instagram and facebook pages.
Sourdough: In case you missed the post last week, Paul at Brook Farm Bakery is back from his holiday and baking. You can order direct from his website before 11am on a Wednesday and then pick up between 5:30 -6pm on a Friday in the shop car park. Look at the details on his website How to Order — BROOKFARMBAKERY
Enjoy the weekend
BHVSA management and committee.
Update from 8th September
Another relatively slow week for news:
Building: Now that the scaffolding is complete and the roof is finally watertight the remaining investigation work is continuing. So far no news on how much of the building requires work. The marquee has been moved to the opposite side of the car park to give contractors easier access to the most damaged side of the building, hopefully where it will remain throughout the project. We continue to look at and cost different options for aspects of a temporary shop/cafe and we will keep you posted as these progress.
Coffee mornings: Another enjoyable coffee morning was held on Wednesday and the next one is scheduled for 10-12 Wednesday 12th September in the MacHall. We hope to see some of you there.
Sourdough: Just a reminder, Paul at Brook Farm Bakery is back from his holiday and baking......you can order direct from his website before 11am on a Wednesday and then pick up between 5:30-6 pm in the shop car park. Look at the details on his website. How to Order — BROOKFARMBAKERY
Enjoy the weekend.
BHVSA management and committee
Update from 1st September 2023
Not so much to report with this week being a short week:
Building: The scaffolding is complete and now the roof is finally
watertight. Internal propping of the unsafe structures to make the
building safe for the final forensic inspection and other inspections
has commenced. This will enable us to understand how much of the
building requires work. Security around the building has been finished
and the playground re opened. Options for aspects of a temporary
shop/cafe are being discussed and costed and we will keep you posted as
these progress.
Coffee mornings: Another enjoyable coffee morning was held on Wednesday
and the next one is scheduled for 10-12 Wednesday 6th September in the
MacHall. We hope to see some of you there.
Enjoy the weekend.
From BHSVA management and committee
Update from 25th August 2023
A few updates ahead of the bank holiday weekend:
Building: The scaffolding and roof covered is now complete (apart from sheeting) and the security fencing reassembled after the scaffolding activity. Inside building activity is planned to start after the bank holiday next week which will entail propping up fire and water damaged structures enabling the final forensic inspection and other inspections to assess how much of the building requires work. An electrician has been lined up for the following week to check out the wiring and set up a new temporary distribution to the contractors site working areas as well as another to the shop. Having electricity back is a key component for whatever pop up shop/cafe we are able to get going, several options are being discussed and we will keep you posted as we find and agree a solution.
Playground: Back open! Now the scaffolding and security fencing have been installed the temporary fencing around parts of the playground has been removed so it is available for use.
Insurance: Our insurer has confirmed settlement of the stock element of our claim and we expect to receive the agreed total into our bank account imminently. Similarly they have agreed to start paying out on the Business Interruption element of our insurance claim. We should receive the first interim payment within the next few days. There are further discussions to be had around this part of the insurance and these will take place once our own Loss Adjuster has returned from leave.
Coffee mornings: Another enjoyable coffee morning was held on Wednesday and the next one is scheduled for 10-12 Wednesday 30th August in the MacHall. We hope to see some of you there.
Finally, enjoy the long weekend...
From BHSVA management and committee
Update from 18th August 2023
There is a little less to report this week, summer holiday time! But a few updates:
Building: The scaffolding erection is still ongoing. No other building or insurance updates this week.
Coffee mornings: We had another successful coffee morning and the next one is on Wednesday 23th (10-12) at the MacHall. Everyone is welcome whether you want to treat yourself to cake and a cuppa or just drop in
for a chat!
Stock sale: We have made the decision to cease the stock sales which were dwindling and taking a lot of work, not least moving stock in and out of the shop and maintaining security whilst stock was in the marquee. We thank you for all of your support over the last few weeks. We have made a donation of remaining stock to the Forest Foodbank and the Coleford community cafe, who were both extremely appreciative of the donation.
From BHSVA management and committee
Update from 11th August
Building: The erection of the scaffolding has started this morning. Once this is fully up it will enable the final stages of structural assessment and forensics.
Coffee mornings: The coffee morning this morning (Friday) at the Mac Hall was a great success and thank you for your continued support of these. Next week, the coffee morning will be on Wednesday 16th (10-12) at the MacHall. Everyone is welcome whether you want to treat yourself to cake and a cuppa or just drop in for a chat!
Stock sale: We are continuing the stock sale whilst we still have access to the building, Saturday 5th from 9am to 5pm.
Update from 7th August
Another week and another update from the shop:
Building: Some visible progress this week. The security fencing is now installed. There has also been significant activity behind the scenes too, the scaffolding is designed and we may see a start on site from the scaffolding contractor next week.
Public meeting: It was good to see so many familiar faces at the meeting on Tuesday evening which provided an opportunity for those present to hear directly about progress to date on the insurance and building activity and the anticipated phases to getting our shop and cafe back. Thank you for providing us with your feedback on what you most value and also priority stock items for any interim "shop".
Association membership: We would normally be asking for membership renewals in August. Given the current situation we are letting existing memberships continue at no extra cost. New memberships can still be taken out for a £10 fee if people would like to support the shop.
Coffee mornings: We continue to run a weekly coffee morning in lieu of the cafe and thank you for your continued support of these. This week we made over £170. Next week, the coffee morning will be on Friday 11th (10-12) at the MacHall, please do note the different day!
Stock sale: We are continuing the stock sale whilst we still have access to the building, today we are open until 5pm and tomorrow, Saturday 5th, from 9am to 5pm.
Update from 1st August
Our next coffee morning is on the 2nd of August.
We are selling off our remaining stock on 3rd, 4th and 5th of August in the marquee adjacent to the shop, ready for work to begin!
Update from 28th July 2023
Another busy week and some key dates
Building: Progress continues. Loose roof tiles and cladding has been removed, the design for the required scaffolding is underway and the security fencing will hopefully be erected early next week.
Stock Sale. We have continued the stock sale this week (Thursday through Saturday) to clear as much stock as possible before we hand the building over to the necessary works. If you haven’t dropped by yet we will be in the marquee until 4pm on Saturday and it continues to be great to catch up with everyone.
Coffee Mornings. We had another successful coffee morning on Wednesday with over £180 raised. We hope to see some of you at the next one on Wednesday 2nd August (10-12) at the Mac Hall.
Public Meeting: The public meeting is next week, Tuesday, 1st August (7-8pm) at Mac Hall. We will provide an update on all activities since the fire on the 19th June and answer questions you may have.
Update from 25th July 2023
Sale! This week on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (27th, 28th and 29th) we are holding a sale to clear out the shop ready for work to begin. Come along to the marquee from 9-5 Thursday and Friday and 9-4 Saturday. #shoplocal
Update from 24th July 2023
Building. Progress continues, the temporary works contractor has now been appointed and we should see security fencing erected within the next week. After which scaffolding will be erected around the cafe end including a temporary roof.
Stock Sale. After 4 days of selling stock, a lot of the stock has been sold. Thank you to everyone who brought stuff, helped set up and sell and popped in to say hello. It was great to see everyone.
Coffee Mornings. We had another successful coffee morning on Friday to close out the week raising just over £225. The next coffee morning will be on Wednesday 26th July (10-12) and we hope to see some of you there.
Public Meeting: As we identified last week we will be holding a public meeting on 1st August at Mac Hall. It will start at 7pm
The Horse Box- Wood Fired Pizza. A date for your diaries, the HorseBox (wood fired pizza) is due to be in the car park 29th July. More about this nearer the time.
Update from 20th July 2023
Village Shop Update:
Building. Since the news that we shared earlier in the week that the insurers have accepted liability for the claim, engineers and surveyors have made initial assessments and are now arranging more intrusive and intense assessments so that the work to make the building structure safe and watertight can be identified and planned. These further assessments will also start to inform the scope of what needs to be done and what will be covered financially by the insurance company in terms of construction work, white goods replacement and any other items insured etc. The path forward and associated timescales remain far from understood but the first early steps have begun.
Stock Sale. We are going to selling selling off the remaining stock in the marquee (17-20th July). Times of the sale are 1-5 Monday, 9-5 Tuesday & Wednesday, 9-1 on Thursday.
Coffee Mornings. The coffee morning on Wednesday 11th July was a great success and raised £560, thank you everyone that participated. The next coffee morning will be held on Friday 21st July (10-12) at the Mac Hall and thereafter every Wednesday (10-12). Donations of cake are always welcome.
Public Meeting. There will be a public meeting on Tuesday 1st August at the Mac Hall for questions you may have, we will confirm timings etc for this.
Update from 14th July
Sale! On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (17th, 18th and 19th) we will be having a sale to clear out the shop ready for work the begin! Come along to the marquee outside the shop from 1pm on Monday and then 9-5 Tuesday and Wednesday! #Hewelsfield #Brockweir #shoplocal
Update from the 13th July 2023
This is a very short note to say that our loss adjuster has been in touch with the positive news that the insurers have accepted liability for the claim. The exact scope of what this means financially in terms of construction work, white goods replacement and any other items insured will now require more discussions and intrusive surveys carried out by specialists.
Whilst we are far from understanding the path or timescales, our next steps are further surveys to define the work required to the building to make it watertight and safe in the short term so the detailed work can commence to get our shop and cafe back.
We will send out a fuller update over the course of the next couple of days including plans for a public meeting.
BHVSA Staff and Committee
Update from 3rd July 2023
On the 11th July we are holding a coffee morning to bring everyone together. It starts at 10AM and will be in the Mackenzie Hall in Brockweir.
Update from 30th June 2023
A shop update before the weekend.
Our insurer appointed a loss adjuster who has now completed their report. We have been informed that there will now be a wait while the insurers and loss adjuster consider the case.
We are still instructed not to use or access the building on health and safety grounds.
We are looking at temporary ways to provide service again. We have reintroduced newspapers (order only) starting Saturday 1st July, please do let us know if you want to reinstate or place a new order and haven’t already.
While the building is off limits, we are starting to think about other short-term activities such as coffee mornings and some form of limited pop-up shop or cafe. If anyone has any ideas, feel free to drop us a message.
We will be organising a public meeting to share ideas, concerns etc. the dates of which should be finalised soon.
Please rest assured that the committee and the management team are committed to restoring the shop as soon as possible and we will do our best to remain in contact whenever there are things to report.
As always if you have any concerns, queries, or matters of interest please get in touch, while we are not in a position to accept all of your generous offers of help at the moment there will come a time (hopefully soon) when the shop needs you more than ever.
Many thanks and see you soon!!
Update from 22nd June 2023
On the morning of Monday 19th June a fire started in the roof of the shop above the cafe. The Fire Brigade were called and after some time the fire was put out. Thankfully no one was hurt and the fire did not spread to the entire building. However there is still significant fire and water damage and a considerable amount of work will be necessary to restore the shop to a fully functioning business again. The shop therefore will remain closed for the foreseeable future.
The shop is a very important part of our community and its temporary closure will be very hard on staff, volunteers, locals and visitors to the area. We were justifiably proud that even through Covid we remained open, providing a vital service to the community. The shop staff will continue to work from a temporary office carrying out all the behind the scenes paperwork necessary to running a business, and with the committee, will work towards reopening the shop.
We are extremely grateful for all the messages and offers of help we have already received, we will certainly need your support in the coming months.
We thank you for your previous custom and hope that it will not be too long before we are able to welcome you back to the shop.
Our current phone number is 07955328516