Community group aims to take over running of axe-threatened Gamesley Community and Youth Centre

A community working group has been formed with the intention of taking over the running of Gamesley Community and Youth Centre.

High Peak MP Robert Largan MP organised a special public meeting at the centre with representatives from both High Peak Borough Council and Derbyshire County Council attending.

Both councils have said they are open to a community asset transfer, where the community centre would be transferred to the community group to run.

Derbyshire County Council has also extended the deadline by three months to give the community group time to put together a business case.

Derbyshire County Council has also apologised to residents for their poor communication and the way the situation has been handled.

Mr Largan said: “It’s good that we were able to share a platform on a cross-party basis, with everyone wanting to work together to keep the community centre open.

“I’m very pleased with the progress being made towards securing the future of Gamesley Community Centre.”

Since hearing in late February that the council cuts would see the centre close at the end of March, a group of seven volunteers joined forces to save the club.

From raising money and creating a business plan to successfully influencing Derbyshire County Council to grant a stay of execution, in just four weeks the volunteers are now feeling confident that Gamesley Community Centre will not just remain open but become the heart of a largely neglected community.

“Over the last 14 years, community facilities have gradually disappeared from Gamesley as funding cuts bit, but closing the Community Centre was the final straw so we had no choice but to stand up and fight,” said Dawn Stevenson from the volunteer group. “The prospect of Gamesley’s young people having nowhere to go and nothing to do outside of school was unthinkable and the local community clearly believes this too.

“We’re incredibly proud of and grateful for the community’s response. Their passion and support has spurred us on to create a viable business plan that’ll keep the Community Centre’s doors open. It’s also opened our eyes to the potential for the centre as somewhere that meets the needs of everyone in Gamesley.”

Fundraising efforts have included a bed-making competition, sponsored skipping, a car wash, and creating canvas art with local artist, Deggy. The funds raised mean the centre can operate for at least 12 months without council support.