Leegomery final centre to transfer to community
Leegomery Community Centre is to become the final one of five transferred from being run by Telford & Wrekin Council to being managed by a different organisation.
From April 1, the community centre will be run by The Leegate Centre, a Community Interest Company – an organisation made up of individuals with experience of running other buildings such as the Park Lane Centre in Woodside.
The transfer was instigated by Telford & Wrekin Council’s budget process in 2016, which decided that the council would no longer be able to run its five community centres.
The other four – Brookside, Sutton Hill, Arleston and Donnington – have all been transferred to other organisations to be managed. Leegomery is the final one to transfer.
Councillor Arnold England, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “This is yet another example of fantastic partnership working with the community that has meant services can continue to be delivered in the face of extreme financial challenges.
“I want to say a big thank you to all the organisations that have stepped forward to take on our community, including the Leegate Community Interest Company.
“This means that our residents in Leegomery will be able to continue to benefit from their Community Centre but at no cost to Telford & Wrekin Council.”
Jacqui Idiens, Senior Manager of The Leegate Centre CIC, said: “Our plans for Leegomery Community Centre include bringing a fresh welcoming feel to newly refurbished large entrance and our community café which will serve freshly prepared meals, snacks and drinks.
“In the reception area we will also be offering free computer access for job searches and a preloved area for books, jigsaws, children’s clothing and toys.
“We expect to continue hosting a variety of courses, groups and support sessions and expand the provision to better meet the needs of our community.
“In addition we will be able to offer suites of rooms for permanent hire for services providers seeking a vibrant community based hub.
“We will be holding an official launch event on Saturday 27th April around a multi-cultural Dragon Fest theme and hope that as many people as possible will come along to meet us, see the changes we have made and have a fun packed family day.”
