WORK has begun on the major refurbishment of Great Houghton Miners’ Welfare Hall.

The project - which is part of the council’s Principal Towns and Local Centres programme - will see the roof replaced, an office extension built, the kitchen renovated and LED lighting installed throughout the hall.

The works will enhance the facilities and energy efficiency of the hall, which is run by Great Houghton Parish Council.

Coun Dorothy Coates, who is the chair of Great Houghton Parish Council, said: “We are very pleased that the work on the welfare hall has started, and we look forward to seeing the results.

“The hall is home to many groups and activities, such as keep fit, sequence dancing, bingo and the youth club, and we hope that the improvements will attract more people to use it.”

Coun Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, added: “A key aim of our Principal Towns programme is to ensure our communities are thriving and connected, and I’m sure the beginning of these works will be welcomed by everyone in Great Houghton.

“We’ve/ already/ invested £5m into our six Principal Towns and ten local centres to help them thrive,/ with another/ £30m planned over the next five years./

“The welfare hall is a valuable asset for the local community, and we are delighted to be able to lead its transformation.”