Conservation & Heritage Issue 52 Summer/Autumn 2026 - Flipbook - Page 69
Fostering Connection
in Heritage Spaces: The
Link Community Hub
Tr ansformation
When introduced empathetically, digital connection can strengthen accessibility and
enhance a church’s sense of community, marrying tradition with new ways of gathering
that reflect the culture and needs of the people at its heart. The Parish of Haslemere has
long been a pillar of local life, preserving links to the past while nurturing connections
among residents.
To build on this legacy, the former church school adjacent
to St Bartholomew’s Church, a Grade II listed building, has
been transformed into The Link Community Hub, a vibrant
building with flexible spaces for events, classes and cultural
activities. It also provides a home for Citizens Advice,
Crossways Counselling, Hear Here, and other support
services. Constructed in three main phases from 1860, its
use was constrained by the historic layout, including a large
central chimney stack. Today it retains original features such
as stone walls and traditional Y-tracery windows.
volunteers, and visitors,” explains Andrew Pymm, Director
at Whitwam AVI.
The main hall was the focus, providing clear audio for
speeches, presentations, and music for recitals and community
gatherings, alongside secure networking to support
community groups. The Hub is designed to accommodate
weddings, parties, hobby groups, exercise classes, committee
meetings, and clinics run by external organisations.
Equipment was chosen for its adaptability and straightforward
operation, including an Epson EB-L530 laser projector with
a Kramer fibre HDMI link, Ecler Aura power amplifiers, EV
Evid C6.2 ceiling speakers, and Sennheiser EW-DX radio
microphones.
To enrich both heritage and community, Whitwam AVI was
brought in to install a modern, discreet AV system. “The
challenge was integrating high-quality audio and video into a
century-old building while enhancing functionality for staff,
I
Conservation & Heritage Journal
67
I
