WORK is well underway on a new sustainable building to replace a scout hut which has stood at a church in Baildon since the Second World War.

The Marley Hut at Baildon Methodist Church has stood in the car park of the church since the end of World War Two, and was initially only expected to last 15 years.

However, it has stood at the church for more than 70 years, and has been used by the Scouts and Baildon Village Pre-School for generations.

The building has now been demolished to make way for a replacement building, funded by members and friends of Baildon Methodist Church.

The new building will see a new two-storey, highly sustainable building created, which will be known as The Fold.

It will be used by Baildon Village Pre-School, other groups for children, and for wider community use.

In the past five years, the church has managed to raise £700,000 thanks to grants, donations and local fundraising, and is continuing to raise money to meet the expected total cost of the project, which is £900,000.

Peter Jackson, lay pastor, said: “The Marley Hut has been in need of replacement for some considerable time.

“At Baildon Methodist Church our 200 members have a strong commitment to serve our local community, particularly the young, and older people who are lonely and isolated.

“Within our main building we already provide a friendly and affordable café and a venue for more than 40 community groups including choirs, fitness classes, youth club, and groups for older people.

“The creation of The Fold will allow us to expand the engagement of the church with our local community.

“With building costs continually rising, we felt that the time is now right to commit to getting the project underway.”

While the work takes place, the pre-school has temporarily moved to Baildon Moravian Church.

Earlier this month, the asbestos roof of the Marley Hut was carefully removed, before the building was demolished in just three hours.

The new building will be comprised of the pre-school on the ground floor, with access to a secure outdoor area, and the first floor will offer an additional community hall along with a small kitchen and toilets.

The development is part of further renovation to the church building, which includes the refurbishment and extension of Wesleys Café.

To support the church, visit wesleysbaildon.org