Our Scout boathouse needs urgent repairs. Donate materials, volunteer, or support our campaign.
Our Scout Group’s boathouse on the River Itchen has been at the heart of our adventures since 1987. For nearly 40 years, it has given generations of young people the opportunity to learn water safety, teamwork, confidence, resilience, and outdoor skills through Scouting activities on the river.
Originally built as a metal structure with an expected lifespan of around 30 years, the boathouse has proudly exceeded expectations. However, decades of exposure to salty air, winter flooding, and corrosion have now caused serious structural deterioration.
Today, many of the supporting beams and foundations have rusted extensively, with some sections no longer properly connected to the floor. Without urgent repairs, we risk losing this important community facility.
We are launching a major community fundraising and volunteer project to restore and strengthen the boathouse for future generations.
The planned repair work includes:
Repairing and replacing rusted support beams
Strengthening the lower walls with brickwork
Improving protection against future flooding and corrosion
Treating and protecting the metal structure with red oxide coatings
Carrying out long-term structural improvements
These repairs will help secure the future of the boathouse and allow local young people to continue enjoying safe access to water activities and outdoor learning on the River Itchen.
We are currently looking for support in several ways.
Donations of Materials
We are seeking donations or sponsorship towards essential building materials, including:
150 concrete blocks
25 bags of sand
8 bags of cement
Red oxide paint and rust treatment materials
Equipment Support
We are also looking for access to:
A cement mixer
Building and preparation tools
Safety equipment and protective materials
Skilled Volunteers
We would greatly appreciate help from volunteers with experience in:
Bricklaying
Structural repairs
Metal preparation and rust removal
Painting and protective coatings
General building and labouring work
Even a few hours of time can make a huge difference.
The boathouse is far more than just a building. It is a place where young people:
Learn practical life skills
Build confidence and independence
Develop teamwork and leadership
Experience outdoor adventure safely
Create lifelong memories and friendships
By helping us save the boathouse, you are helping preserve an important local community asset and ensuring future generations can continue to benefit from Scouting on the River Itchen.
We are currently applying for grants and community funding to support the project, while also seeking help from local businesses, suppliers, and supporters.
Every donation, share, volunteer hour, or contribution of materials helps bring us one step closer to securing the future of the boathouse.
If you can provide support, please reach out to scouts@9thitchenseascouts.org