If you are new to the Saltwood Club or if you are a member who is not yet aware of the Centennial Project, we would like to take this opportunity to welcome you.  We would also like to offer you an overview of the club, and to explain what we hope and expect to achieve through the successful culmination of the project.

 

The Saltwood Club started its life in 1927 as the Saltwood Workingmen’s Club.  The memorial foundation stones were laid on 19th November by the patrons, the Rector of Saltwood, Rev D. G. Macpherson, and Brigadier General Nicholson.  It was conceived as a not-for-profit organization, owned by the members and run by the members, for the members.

 

In 2027 the club will reach its centenary; a significant achievement and milestone marking 100 years of service to the community.  A great deal has changed over those ten decades, and the club has grown and evolved to meet those changes through a willingness to embrace new ideas and an ever-widening range of facilities and activities.  However, the fundamental community-based ethos that has underpinned its longevity and success, has remained as its core principle to this day.

 

All buildings require ongoing maintenance, and the Saltwood Club is no exception.  Over its 100-year history much has been done and continues to be done.  Members, past and present, through their hard work as trustees, members of the committee, or by volunteering their time and effort in response to general administration and ongoing events, etc., have achieved a great deal.  Improvements have been made, but if the club is to continue and flourish for another 100 years, there must be a clear vision, and a plan put in place that will serve to support and sustain it.

 

To that end, the Centennial Project was conceived in the summer of 2024.  Since then, we have consulted an architect with proposals to put the fabric of the club into a good state of repair, whilst also taking the opportunity to make significant improvements. 

 

Plans have been drawn up and an ambitious schedule of works has been put together.  At the beginning of 2025 those plans were put before Folkestone and Hythe District Council, Saltwood Parish Council and immediate neighbours, and we are pleased to say that planning consent has been granted.

 

Work, fundraising and progress are ongoing, and we expect to have construction drawings and tender documents in our possession by the end of May 2025.  At this point we will be able to undertake a cost analysis and put together an overall information package that will be available for members to view.

 

We look forward to seeing you and invite you to support and participate in this exciting opportunity.

 

 

The Trustees and Committee of the Saltwood Club