Initial proposals for a wellbeing centre in Bramley have been welcomed by a forum of local residents – despite concerns the new building would encroach onto green fields.
Members of the Bramley and Stanningley Forum heard Dr Mark Fuller from Manor Park Surgery speak about an idea to build a new wellbeing centre next to the surgery, which would house support groups, local projects and activities. Early ideas include a park for children, exercise bikes, community gardens and a restaurant/cafe.
Dr Fuller said the proposals – which follow a recent extension of the surgery – would be similar to the wellbeing centre in Robin Lane, Pudsey, which currently houses a wide variety of groups and activities. Plans would also include a new entrance to the surgery off Bell Lane and extra car parking.
Public health manager Tim Taylor told the meeting:
“Pudsey’s centre has had a great impact on the community. About 60 groups use that centre, bringing their own interests from breastfeeding to arts groups. It’s really vibrant and it helps people keep well. The question for us is ‘what is missing in Bramley?'”
Ideas from residents included an Armley Junktion-style pay as you feel kitchen using food about to go to waste.
The proposals still need to attract funding and a full planning application will need to be submitted, but meeting chairperson Cllr Caroline Gruen said approving the application would not be straightforward as part of the centre would have to be built on green space land.
One resident added:
“You can’t argue with investment for Bramley, but there are a lot of people with very fond memories of that area. It will be a shame to see them go.”
Cllr Kevin Ritchie acknowledged green space issues but added his support or the scheme which he said could ‘enhance’ the existing green space.