About Dorney Village Hall
A Community Hub With a Rich Heritage
Dorney Village Hall stands as a testament to community spirit and cooperation, serving local residents for over nine decades. More than just a building, it’s a place where memories are made, connections are formed, and community life flourishes.
Our Story Through the Decades
Humble Beginnings – 1930
The original Dorney Village Hall opened on Village Road in 1930, created specifically as a gathering place for the vibrant local clubs and societies that formed the heart of community life in Dorney at that time.
A New Chapter – 1970
As the community grew, so did the need for a larger, more modern facility. The current hall was built off Meadow Way in Dorney Reach in 1970, funded through a remarkable partnership of community contributions, government grants, and district council support. This investment showcased the community’s dedication to maintaining a central meeting space for generations to come.
Revitalisation – 2013-14
After decades of faithful service, the hall underwent a comprehensive refurbishment in 2013-14. This essential renovation, supported substantially by Dorney residents through the Parish Council precept, breathed new life into this beloved community asset, ensuring its continued service for future generations.
Our Mission
Dorney Village Hall exists to create a welcoming, accessible space where community life can thrive. We are committed to:
- Community Connection – Providing a high-quality facility where residents can gather, celebrate, and connect
- Accessibility for All – Offering an affordable venue for activities, celebrations, and group meetings
- Preserving Local Heritage – Maintaining and enhancing a valuable community asset
- Building Community Spirit – Supporting the relationships and activities that create a sense of belonging
How We’re Run
Dorney Village Hall is a registered charity (No. 300255) that transitions to management by Dorney Parish Council as Sole Trustee from April 2025.
This evolution in governance brings together the best of both worlds – stable, transparent oversight through the Parish Council combined with the charitable status that keeps the hall accessible and affordable. Day-to-day operations remain in the capable hands of our Village Hall Manager, supported by dedicated Management and Executive Committees.
This thoughtful approach ensures professional management with strong community input, allowing the hall to adapt and respond to changing local needs.
A Community Investment
The story of Dorney Village Hall is also a story of community investment and pride. Over the years, Dorney residents have contributed approximately £200,000 (in today’s equivalent value) since 1970. This significant commitment reflects just how important the hall is to local residents and their dedication to maintaining it as a cornerstone of community life.
Dorney residents continue to support the hall through their Council Tax precept and enjoy special discounted hire rates in recognition of this ongoing contribution – our way of saying “thank you” for decades of community support.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward under Parish Council trusteeship, we remain as committed as ever to serving the evolving needs of our community. We continue to invest in maintaining and improving our facilities, ensuring the hall remains a vibrant, relevant, and valuable resource for all residents.
We value your ideas and involvement! Your feedback helps shape the future of this important community space. Please contact us with suggestions or to discuss how you might get involved with supporting Dorney Village Hall.
Together, we’re writing the next chapter in the story of this special place at the heart of our community.