A MAJOR refurbishment to boost the facilities at Overton Community Centre is under way.

The £250,000 project will see the listed Victorian building, at the junction of Winchester Street and High Street, transformed into a modern hub of activity.

Plans to demolish the entrance and restore it to its original design have been drawn up, and there is a move to increase the space of the room used by a playgroup and install a unisex disabled toilet.

Work began earlier this week and the first stage of the two-stage plan is expected to take 14 weeks.

Funding has come from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Hampshire County Council, Overton Parish Council and from appeals by Overton Community Association.

However, the association is about £50,000 short of its target and will not draw up plans for work to begin on the second stage until the cash is found.

Paula Baker, the chairman of trustees for Overton Community Association, said: "The centre has been in desperate need of refurbishment for many years and we're delighted to finally see it happen.

"It is a major landmark in Overton and it's important that its users are treated to first-rate facilities. I see this as a major step in establishing its future."

The second-stage work includes installation of new radiators, removal of false ceilings and sanding and polishing the floor.

The leaking roof will be repaired and a new fire alarm system and electrical wiring will be installed.

Fundraising for the project began three years ago.

The hall was built in 1868 and, up until 1978, it was a junior school. However, since then, it has been leased by the association from Hampshire County Council.

The council has provided £30,000 for the refurbishment, £25,000 will come from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, £10,000 from Overton Parish Council and money from developers' contributions equates to £100,000.

Overton Community Association has raised about £35,000. Stage one has cost £150,000 and stage two will take up the other £100,000.

Derick Mirfin, president of Overton Community Association, said: "The centre is a fantastic facility and I've watched it become an important part of the village.

"We'd like to thank everyone who has helped us raise so much money and we'd like to appeal for everyone's help in reaching the grand total."

If you would like to help, contact Mrs Baker on 01256 771219.