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Balgrayhill Community Centre has been given a new lease of life. After being closed for more than four years, the centre faced a significant challenge to rebuild its role in the community. With a fresh vision and a series of carefully considered changes, the centre has been transformed into a vibrant hub for local residents.
It is now thriving, with a steady stream of bookings forming the backbone of its success. Income generated from bookings is reinvested directly into community projects. These include free hall access from Monday to Wednesday (10.30am–1.30pm), IT support sessions for over-65s, and a range of free activities such as pool, music, chess, indoor bowling, and even free fruit.
The centre also hosts regular evening activities, with the hall in use every Thursday from 6pm to 10pm.
A standout initiative is the Saturday Market, which grew out of a cooperative scheme where the Centre supports new project ideas with set-up funding of up to £50. Held on the first Saturday of each month from 1pm to 4pm, the market has quickly become a local success story. At a recent event, more than 200 people attended to browse, buy and sell items, and enjoy a lively community atmosphere.
Balgrayhill Community Centre Property Manager Saiful Alam said: “I’m delighted to see how successful a simple project has become. It’s fantastic to see local residents taking the lead and making it their own. We would love to see more ideas like this – projects that are practical, bring people together, and help build stronger connections in the community.”
He added: “We want everyone to feel welcome to get involved. Whether it’s creating a new project or making use of the space, the centre is here for the community. Together, we can ensure Balgrayhill Community Centre continues to grow and thrive.”
For more information about events and projects at Balgrayhill Community Centre, visit www.balgrayhillcentre.co.uk or follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/balgrayhill
