Now that the dust has settled it is worth reflecting on where we are after a long interregnum away from Bertram Street. Our long-suffering neighbours can at last hopefully enjoy the benefits of living next to a brand new functioning community centre.
We had a fantastic opening event on 16 May – a very happy occasion. It featured two school choirs and orchestra from partner schools, guest speakers and provided tantalising previews of our magnificent hall (with a climbing wall and ping pong – football sessions have begun again), cook and pottery schools, hairdressers and Terroni’s cafe which provided delicious samples of its wares. I must also mention the magnificent tree which decorates our entrance hall! Present on the day were another local partner Wood that Works and volunteers from Channing school and our football partner 2TR. Reports of the event are in our News section.
In due course we aim to have a subsidised laundry up and running – still a few teething problems as with any new build! Camden who have been very supportive in building our new centre will have a children’s services suite on the second floor and Youth Services will take the top floor.
Now with the help of our new team at the centre the serious work begins. We have a great offering – something special for everyone. We need to spread the word, relying on our newsletters and other PR but also asking all those who have been to see for themselves to tell others quite how exciting the new centre is with all that we have on offer.
We have a membership Club Card (swipe in card reader at the entrance) so we can keep members informed of what is available. For those for whom money is an issue we have various free or subsidised services. We particularly hope that those living on their own locally will come and enjoy meeting friends, making new friends and participating in some of the activities on offer in a comfortable welcoming environment. For all members of our community young and old there is something special for everyone.
Give us a try – we feel sure you won’t be disappointed and we of course welcome feedback (see Contact us on this website and a feedback screen in the entrance hall).
Robert Aitken (Chair)
