South Tyneside Council inundated with offers of support after community centre shake up
“We are changing the management arrangements so these facilities can continue to support their communities on a more sustainable footing.”
More than 60 individuals or groups have stepped in with offers to support community centres facing change under sweeping plans, council chiefs have confirmed.
They announced the tally less than a week after confirming they will demolish one CA and shake-up the management of two others.
It has led them to repeat their call for interested parties to get in touch with their details so their voices can be heard.
Last week, South Tyneside Council revealed All Saints, in South Shields, and Clegwell and Hartleyburn, in Hebburn, will have their leasing arrangements changed due to long-running issues.
Both will remain open for business but on a different model.
Responsibility for Clegwell and Hartleyburn will transfer to neighbouring Hebburn Comprehensive School.
The council said it is contacting user groups so their circumstances and requirements can be considered.
It also said a number of organisations had come forward to express interest in managing All Saints.
However, it reiterated Brinkburn CA, in South Shields, will be knocked down, in part due to unsustainable running costs.
The announcement for all three centres sparked heated public debate.
Susan Sybenga, Lead Member for Finance and Resources, said: “Our priority is to make sure the groups and clubs at the heart of these communities are supported through these changes and can continue the activities local people value.
“I want to reassure people that Clegwell and All Saints are not being closed.
“We are changing the management arrangements so these facilities can continue to support their communities on a more sustainable footing.
“At Clegwell, community provision will transfer to the school and we are working with groups on what they need as that transition takes place.
“At All Saints, we have already had interest from potential new operators and we will work carefully through those approaches.
“There is a huge amount of good work taking place across all three sites, built up by volunteers, groups and local people over many years.
“This is about ensuring a long-term sustainable future for the sites, while supporting the groups, clubs and activities that matter to local people.”
Groups can provide details through the short form at www.southtyneside.gov.uk/communitygroups