Since the loss of both the Howard Mallett Centre and the Mill Road library in 1998, local residents have been campaigning relentlessly to regain meaningful community facilities - and this is the first real opportunity that has ever arisen.
Their novel scheme to acquire this Community centre has raised £600,000 by offering community shares to local residents. Cambridge has responded brilliantly and this would be the first such facility in the region to be acquired in this way.
A 6-month community asset moratorium gave the campaign group the chance to put together an offer to the Methodist Church (the current owners) before the site goes on the open market on March 1. This is a critical time for the campaign.
John Franks, leading the Save Our Space Campaign, said “We have been overwhelmed by the public response. Local people are strongly behind us. They would love the Hall to be saved so it can be run by and for the community. Our facility will provide clearly needed nursery provision, a space for older people to meet and many clubs for all ages.”
“We have made our formal bid today, but are still seeking support from local businesses and residents to make it even stronger. Businesses can support the acquisition of the site through a one-off investment. This gives businesses a unique opportunity to to make a positive impact in the community they serve.”
Local resident Ruth Billingham has pledged support and hopes the bid will be successful. “I have a young daughter and would love the hall to be turned into a community centre with a nursery and toddler group. It would be great to have a place to meet other parents right on our doorstep. It’s sad to think that the site may be turned over to development when there is such passion to keep the hall running for the community.”
To find out more and support the campaign visit www.sturton.org
NOTES
Residents are still able to pledge to buy shares in the scheme. Shareholders will receive interest on their investment. And the campaign is pleased to announced that shareholders are expected to benefit from Social Investment Tax Relief, which provides a
30% income tax relief on any investment in blocks of shares.
Businesses can make an investment starting from as little £500. Businesses can become Angel supporters by making an investment of £6,000 for a 1% share in the project and will be given high-profile recognition onsite and through project promotion.
The campaign has been generously supported by political representatives of all four major parties.
Cambridge City Council has allocated £48,600 of S106 funding for building improvement, once the site has been successfully acquired.
The site is being sold by the Methodist Church.
Read the Sturton centre business plan
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Contact
Ruth Billingham: Tel 07814 908139
Email [email protected]
Twitter: @savesturton