CAMPAIGNERS have claimed a victory over proposals they feared could lead to a hike in village hall charges.

The Government had proposed fees for performing rights licences be set locally which would have seen them set by councils, rather than nationally which is the current arrangement.

But after listening to the views of volunteers who run the halls and receiving letters and emails in protest, the Home Office decided that fees would continue to be set nationally.

It was feared that the proposal would lead to increased charges with community groups ultimately footing the bill.

Those making representations included the Action with Communities in Rural England network which is a member of the Home Office technical advisory group on licensing.

It is the umbrella group for the Tees Valley Rural Community Council (TVRCC), a charity which provides support to rural communities in the area and has 51 village halls within its patch.

Senior Rural Development Officer and Village Hall adviser Janice McColm said: “Village halls are at the heart of community life, and are often the only place in the village for people to meet.

“ Some halls are struggling to keep going and increased costs would only add to their difficulties.

“We’re very pleased that the Home Office has listened to the views of committee members and taken them on board.”

Village halls and other community buildings require licences for a number of scenarios such as when music is being played or alcohol served.