The Hub @ Toothill has announced the appointment of Joanne Vertannes - known as Jo - as Interim CEO. Jo will lead the strategic development of the long-awaited community hub, ensuring it is co-created with local residents and delivered as a vibrant, sustainable space at the heart of Toothill.
“I am very excited to take on this role and to work alongside residents to bring the Hub to life. This is a space designed by the community, for the community, and my focus is to make sure it is delivered in a way that reflects local voices and priorities,” said Jo.
Building Progress and Challenges On her first day, Jo joined the volunteer team of directors of The Hub @ Toothill CIC to welcome Swindon Borough Council’s Building Control officers, who reassessed the remaining works. Early feedback was positive, and the full report is expected next week.
Securing funding to complete the building is a top priority. The original contractors, failed to meet budget specification, and certain elements of building regulations, and legal action was taken but couldn't move forward due to their financial situation.
“While the delays were both challenging and disheartening, our focus is now on solutions that will open the Hub for residents as soon as possible. We’re working closely with the Local Trust, key partners, and volunteers to do our best to complete the building to the highest standard. Once the new Building Control report is in, we’ll share exactly where help is needed,” Jo explained.
Recognising Community Commitment
Jo paid tribute to the volunteer directors of The Hub @ Toothill:
“The Hub would not be where it is today without the tireless commitment of our volunteer directors. Their persistence through difficult times has laid the foundations for us to take this next step together.”
Clarifying the £1 Million Big Local Funding
Jo will also prioritise answering community questions about the £1 million Big Local funding allocated to Toothill. She will outline how the funds have been used:
Toothill Big Local (pre-2018): A volunteer-led partnership, operating under the Big Local framework and funded by the National Lottery. Residents voted on how money was spent, supporting local groups, classes, and community projects.
The Hub @ Toothill CIC (2018 onwards): A not-for-profit Community Interest Company, set up to deliver the Hub. In 2018, the remaining funds were transferred to the CIC in stages to redevelop the former Village Tavern into a vibrant community hub as a lasting legacy for the residents of Toothill, their friends and visitors for many years to come. The Interim CEO, fixed term until March 2026, has been funded by the Local Trust.
The Hub is committed to publishing a breakdown of costs in the near future.
Looking Ahead
“My goal is to provide clarity, rebuild confidence, and most importantly, to get this incredible space open and thriving for the residents of Toothill. To do this, we need to raise additional funds. We cannot apply for grant funding to cover construction works that have already been completed, even if done incorrectly, as this would constitute double funding under funders’ rules. Instead, we will need to be creative in securing support, and we hope to engage local residents and tradespeople to help bring this project to life,” Jo concluded.
The Hub plans to launch a new website in the coming weeks, which will outline the specific volunteer roles needed to help complete the building. Local tradespeople and larger companies would be hugely appreciated for sharing their time and expertise.
A volunteer Director added: “We’ve already had people step forward to help with various tasks, which is fantastic. Sadly, we can’t begin this work until we have Building Control, as this is required before we can secure Public Liability insurance. Once that’s in place, we’ll be ready to harness the community’s energy. That said, the Hub will be posting volunteer roles in fundraising and content creation in the coming weeks, so there are plenty of ways for people to get involved now.”
The team is also exploring a crowdfunding campaign, giving local residents/ businesses the chance to contribute directly to essential costs of corrective actions needed for Building Control sign-off. Supporters can donate directly or initiate their own fundraising activities -such as community events, sponsored walks, or other creative initiatives -to support the project and help bring the Hub to completion.
About The Hub @ Toothill
The Hub @ Toothill CIC, established as a non-profit organisation in 2018 to acquire and transform the former Village Tavern into a vibrant community hub at the heart of local life. Designed by the community, for the community, it will offer inclusive family events, adaptable spaces for hire, learning opportunities - including apprenticeships - and tailored services for residents. Retaining the historic Toot and Whistle bar, the Hub is more than a building; it is a long-term investment in connection, wellbeing, and neighbourhood pride.
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