Volunteers are working to revive the Garden Village Welfare Association (GVWA) Community Centre in Cross Gates, which they say is underused and in need of significant repair.
The building on Penda's Way, currently owned by a trust, was constructed after World War Two alongside neighbouring houses. It was once regularly used for theatre productions and exercise classes, but now operates only a few hours per week.
Community Event This Saturday
On Saturday, volunteers will hold an event to draw attention to the centre's condition. An exhibition of the building's history will run from 11:00 to 16:00, inviting residents to view displays and share their views on its future.
Entertainment will include a fire-eating juggler. From 19:00, a lantern parade will take place on the green at the rear of the property, accompanied by a brass band.
Vision for the Future
Helen Lucy, one of the volunteers, said the group wants to transform the centre into a place where the community can regularly gather. "We want it to feel like a place they think is theirs, that they can call home and that brings people together," Lucy said.
Luke Murrow, another volunteer, said he wanted the venue to become "vibrant" again, as it was during its 20th Century heyday when drama societies staged plays regularly and youth clubs operated from the building.
"Our aim is for it to get to that state again where there's something for everyone here," Murrow said.
Funding Plans
Volunteers intend to apply for lottery funding and other grants to finance the repairs and renovation work needed. The green to the rear of the centre, once used to host summer fairs, is also part of the property.
