The future of Bramley Community Centre has been secured today after Bramley Elderly Action (BEA) was given the green light to take over the running of Bramley Community Centre.
Senior councillors have agreed to transfer ownership of the centre, which is surplus to council requirements, over to BEA, which supports older people.
BEA say they’ll run the centre for the benefit of all in the community, allowing existing groups such as Bramley Historical Society and Bramley Luncheon Club to continue at the site and encouraging more community groups and individuals to use the facilities.
Stuart Quin, Chair of Bramley Elderly Action, said:
“We’re delighted at the decision, which has massive support from our members, volunteers and the local community.
“Our members remember the community centre in its prime – a place that connected people and created opportunities for young and old.
“There’s a lot of work ahead to restore the fortunes of this underused community resource but we’re really looking forward to working with others and being part of a bright new chapter at the centre.”
A report to councillors concluded:
“The centre currently runs at a financial deficit to the council and transferring the centre will result in a saving of the running costs. Consultation has strongly supported BEA having an increased role in the running of the centre.”
Maintenance, running and insurance costs at the centre will transfer to BEA, who will pay the council a peppercorn rent for the next 25 years.
The council will carry out essential repair work before the lease begins. BEA hopes to take possession of the centre later this year.
Staff will move from their current base in Stanningley Road to the Waterloo Lane building.
The community centre transfer is part of a wider review being carried out by Leeds City Council which could see the current Bramley housing office transfer to Bramley Library to create a community hub similar to the models already in operation in Armley and Pudsey.
A consultation in November showed strong support for BEA running the facility. The move was also supported by Bramley ward councillors Kevin Ritchie, Caroline Gruen and Jools Heselwood.
The executive board report can be read in full here.