A Barnsley village hall and library is fitter for the future after undergoing a major makeover thanks to council investment. 

Mapplewell and Staincross Village Hall has benefited from extensive improvements throughout to boost sustainability, reduce running costs and brighten up the premises for visitors and staff alike. 

Mapplewell Library, which is in the same building, has been transformed by refurbishment, `and a complete revamp of the children’s library to make it more welcoming. 

The Mayor of Barnsley, Cllr John Clarke, performed the official opening alongside Cllr Wendy Cain, Cllr Robin Franklin, Nick Hibberd, Council members, our Libraries team and members of the community. 

The £350,000 programme of village hall works is part of the council’s Principal Towns and Local Centres Programme, which aims to enhance community facilities across the borough, while the £100,000 library project comes under the borough-wide Libraries Refurbishment Programme. 

The Principal Towns works included installing LED lighting inside and out, replacing the main boiler and heating system and making improvements to sewerage, as well as to the foyer and other key areas of the building. 

The transformation of the library, which was funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, included layout improvements, new carpets and redecoration, new shelving and furniture and an enhanced children’s library. 

Village Hall manager Nick Hibberd said: “The village hall and library are the true heart of Mapplewell and Staincross, offering a huge range benefits and opportunities to the community. 

“These works are much more than a financial investment. They have ensured the village hall and library are more welcoming, fuel-efficient and fit for the future. 

“They have already made a real difference to the people of Mapplewell, Staincross and the surrounding community and will continue to do for years to come.” 

Wath-upon-Dearne-based O&P Construction Services carried out the works as part of the Principal Towns programme, which is transforming community facilities across Barnsley. 

The village hall hosts a range of activities every week, from aerobics, art and ballroom dancing to a toddler group, yoga and Zumba, with more details available on their website. 

Councillor Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “The village hall committee play a key role in offering a valued community hub and we were pleased to support them in guaranteeing this will be the case for future generations. 

“I’m delighted with the outcome of these works, which demonstrate our commitment to ensuring our communities are connected and thriving.” 

“I’m sure everyone in Mapplewell and Staincross will be impressed by the results of our investment and encourage anyone who has not yet been to the new-look village hall and library to pay a visit and find out what is on offer.” 

Councillor Wendy Cain, Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health and Communities, said: “Mapplewell and Staincross Library, located at the village hall, is one of our busiest branches, and we are excited to have been able to make the library offer even better than before. 

“Whether you’re borrowing books, using the library for studying, or attending one of our exciting events or activities, we hope you’ll enjoy the newly refurbished space.” 

We’ve already invested more than £5 million our Principal Towns and Local Centres Programme, with another £30 million planned over the next five years to help ensure our high streets and communities are thriving and connected. 

Find out more about how we’re investing in our communities across Barnsley. 

You can find out more about what’s on at our libraries.