AN OPEN DAY took place at Bishopton Community Centre on 12 May where locals were invited to celebrate its recent refurbishment thanks to a £15,000 grant from Stratford Town Trust. The improvements have included the provision of new flooring and lighting, making the centre more accessible and inviting for the whole community.
The project was extended thanks to the support of Orbit and their property care partner, Fortem. They provided the materials and their staff volunteered their time to completely redecorate the centre, including replacing the accessible toilet.
Cheryl Flavell, Placemaking and Partership Manager, Community Investment at Orbit said: “Orbit are proud to support the refurbishment of this thriving community centre. We understand and support initiatives such as this and recognise that people value a community space in order to access a variety of activities and support. A hub at the heart of the community brings people together.”
The purpose of the centre is to provide a hub where local people can come together. It is already used by a number of regular groups including brownies and guides, a playgroup, lunch club, photographic society and church. It can also be hired for social gatherings and community events.
Charles Bates, Treasurer and Trustee at Bishopton Community Centre said: “Our centre is now a warm and welcoming space where people can gather to share interests and make new friends. We hope that the improvements will attract even more people to come and see what great facilities are available at the heart of their community.”
Sara Aspley, CEO at Stratford Town Trust said: “Bishopton Community Centre was nominated for a grant through our ReBuild initiative which aimed to fund projects that were important to local people. The money invested in the centre has helped it to become a resource that the community can be truly proud of.”