BUILDING work on an environmentally friendly village hall that will produce most of its own power is nearing completion.

George Littler, vice-chairman of the project, said the facility in Marthall would be opened on time and on budget.

“The project is now entering the final phase of the plan,” he said.

The village hall will be used by residents in Marthall, Ollerton and Little Warford.

Its environmentally friendly features include solar panels, wind turbines and under-floor heating.

The hall will also recycle rainwater.

On Monday, Mr Littler, who has lived in the village for more than 40 years, said the structure looked impressive.

“It’s certainly very futuristic. It’s one of the only halls of its kind in the area,” he said.

“It really is a state of the art facility. It’s a modern building, but it blends in beautifully.”

Plans for the hall were first drawn up more than two years ago.

Organisers then received £475,000 from the Big Lottery Fund to pay for most of the work.

Waste Recycling Environmental Ltd also donated £50,000.

Meanwhile, the nearby David Lewis Centre has now provided equipment for a computer suite.

“They’ve all given it the maximum support,” said Mr Littler.

Villagers helped to raise £110,000 towards the project by staging several events.

One evening – hosted by England football legend Sir Bobby Charlton – made £8,000.

Organisers also asked residents to donate money towards the hall’s chairs.

Each person who purchased one will have their name recorded in the village archives.

“The project has been very well supported by residents and businesses,” said Mr Littler.

The village hall is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

Bobby Charlton and Tatton MP George Osborne will be asked to attend the official opening ceremony.

Residents from the David Lewis Centre, which specialises in severe epilepsy cases, will help to clean the hall regularly.

Mr Littler said the facility near Marthall Parish Church would be a focal point for the community.

“It will provide a resource for residents locally and beyond for many years,” he said.