Tempers flared and allegations raged as more than 120 residents discussed the future of Beech Village Hall last Wednesday. The three-hour meeting concerned the renewal project for the village centrepiece which has stood since 1932. In his opening address, chairman John Henderson admitted: "The hall as it stands needs some work doing to it, but we would like to see a solution which is acceptable to all. Nevertheless, strong views exist on both sides." Reading a progress report, Charles Cockburn, chairman of the renewal project, accepted that "it has come to a grinding halt." After withdrawing a planning application for reasons of funding and a perceived lack of support in the village, the meeting was called to consider options for the future. There were five options on offer for villagers to choose from, ranging from no change to demolition and rebuilding. Other possibilities included updating the existing building by adding extra rooms. Participants discussed a series of alternatives in a meeting where debate and discussion were encouraged. And it certainly did not disappoint. Doubts were raised from several quarters surrounding the funding of the project, which currently stands at £33,500, while committee members were accused of misrepresentation, misinformation, propaganda and spin. Additionally, those villagers who opposed several propositions for updating the hall were brandished "NIMBYs". Jane Allen remarked: "I am amazed by the ingratitude of man. People have been terribly rude to one another this evening. I don't know if the committee is right or wrong, but all they get is two fingers in the eyeballs followed by a quick twist and I think that's disgusting. "Think of the future - not once have I heard the word 'community' used tonight. I am amazed at the selfishness in this room," she said to widespread applause. After this speech, matters calmed slightly with Bob Avery remarking "The purpose of this meeting was not to have hysterical reactions. People need to go away and decide what they want". "We need a village hall which meets the village needs," said Steven Thistlewood. Following a series of votes both for and against options, no firm decision was reached. Speaking after the event, Mr Cockburn spelled out the future in simple terms. "We need to come back with three or four fully costed options, including a plan and ideas for fund-raising and put each idea to another public meeting, asking the village to endorse one option." "Bar one, every single option requires outside funding and to go forward, we need to be looking for the lowest common denominator. Option 2b - for minimal change with the hall remaining the same, but with a new kitchen and toilet block attached to rear of the building, all on the same level - seems to attract the widest support. "I am angry, as I believed we had a clear mandate. The problem is that if we don't build shortly, we will be looking at a dilapidated hall, which is losing business and potentially even trustees. The situation is frustrating, but there is a new way forward. The next public meeting will be crucial." Minutes of the meeting will presently be available for perusal on the Beech village website on http://www.beechvillage.org">www.beechvillage.org. l People are reminded that the Beech Village Walk takes place on Sunday at 2 pm. The walk is in memory of David Essex-Crosby, who founded the walk, and participants should gather at the village hall. The walk costs £2 each for adults, and children amble for free.