Future of West Midlands community centre revealed

The future of a community centre in Birmingham has seemingly been confirmed after the building was declared ‘surplus’ by the city council.

Amidst a financial crisis that engulfed the local authority, the council agreed to stop funding directly managed community centres in 2024 and instead sought to transfer them to third parties.

Sheldon Heath Community Centre, which provides a food bank, youth activities, dance classes and more, was presented as such an opportunity that year.

A preferred bidder was selected but they withdrew late in the process, with a recent council report adding: “There were no other suitable proposals on the table, despite the opportunity being re-opened several times.”

This meant the two-storey property was ‘declared surplus’ and was marketed for nine weeks earlier this year, restricted to community uses only.

There is now a proposal for a lease to a registered charity, which would provide the “continued operation of a community facility” with affordable and accessible space for community groups, voluntary organisations and local residents.

“The charity proposes to develop the centre as a community hub,” the report said.

“It intends to build upon the existing use of the centre, retain current users where possible and work with local residents, community groups and partner organisations.

“The prospective tenant has also demonstrated experience in the management and operation of community facilities.”

The council said this experience is “particularly important” given that responsibility for ongoing repair, maintenance and operation of the community centre will rest with the charity.

“The charity has further shown a strong track record of securing grant funding and attracting investment,” it continued.

“The tenant has identified opportunities for future investment in the building and would seek to ensure that the centre is well-managed [and] financially sustainable.

“Subject to completion of the lease documentation, the proposed tenant intends to commence operating the centre within a matter of weeks from lease completion.

“Initially, this will involve continuing the existing operation and user groups from the site, before introducing their additional services and activities.”

The report added that the transaction would not only “secure the long term occupation” of the building but also support the council’s financial recovery plan.

On the option of doing nothing, it said: “The council is under no obligation to proceed with the proposal.

“However, the building is now the last directly managed community centre and following the withdrawal of the budget, it is likely that the facility would need to close if the proposal does not proceed.”

Members of the council’s property committee agreed to go ahead with the letting of Sheldon Heath Community Centre earlier this week.

Councillor Saddak Miah (Labour, Garretts Green) previously welcomed the plans, saying: “The proposal provides a sustainable and positive future for an important community asset while ensuring that the centre remains available for the benefit of local residents and community groups.

“I believe local residents will welcome this proposal as it secures the future of the community centre, protects a valued community asset, and supports the continued delivery of activities and services that benefit people of all ages within the area.

“The commitment to maintaining community access and strengthening local engagement is particularly encouraging.”