School trust is appointed to run Dudley children's centre, despite MP's protests at 'privatisation'

Councillor Wayne Little, cabinet member for children's services at Dudley Council, said the deal with Dudley Academies Trust had secured the future of the 'much-loved' Sycamore Adventure Centre.

Sign up to our free newsletter today

The site, in Sycamore Green, Old Park Farm estate, provides activities for children, including those with special needs or disabilities.

The announcement comes just two days after Dudley MP Sonia Kumar handed in a petition to the House of Commons opposing plans to hand over the running of the centre to an independent operator, saying it amounted to privatisation.

She voiced concerns that the move would lead to higher fees and reduced services.

But the trust said it's priority was to put on free and low-cost sessions for vulnerable groups as well as expanding school break programmes funded by the Holiday Activity Fund. There are also plans to put on inclusive sessions for children with special educational needs and disabilities, it said..

Councillor Little said he was delighted to secure the future of the centre which a year ago had been under threat due to the precarious state of the council's finances.

"This will ensure this much-loved facility remains open and thriving for generations to come," he said.

“This decision follows a thorough and competitive process, and we are confident that the Trust's robust proposal will deliver long-term financial security through a sustainable model that generates surpluses for reinvestment into the centre.

“With projected annual earnings exceeding running costs and a commitment to securing external grants, this agreement provides stability without placing additional burden on council taxpayers in Dudley.

“Sycamore Adventure has long been a cherished 'community anchor' in Dudley.

“It offers safe, inclusive play spaces where families can build relationships, children can grow in confidence, and schools can engage in enriching outdoor learning.

“Under Dudley Academies Trust's stewardship, the centre will continue to provide essential support to our local families."

Councillor Little also thanked the other community groups, primarily volunteer-led, which applied to take on the running of the centre and said they would play a part in shaping the site’s future.

“We will explore ways to harness their enthusiasm and expertise to support the continued success of the site, ensuring their valuable contributions enhance the community benefit moving forward,” he added. 

Dudley Academies Trust runs four secondary schools and two primary schools in the borough.

Chief executive Jo Higgins said: “I am delighted that we have been selected as the successful bidder to take over the operations of Sycamore Adventure Centre.

“First and foremost, Dudley Academies Trust is a charitable organisation, funded by the Government and shares the values that underpin Sycamore Adventure.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for Dudley Academies Trust to work closely with local families and community groups to build on the centre’s existing strengths and ensure its continued success.

“We are committed to making the centre a safe, inclusive, and vibrant community hub, where everyone feels welcome and valued. Our vision is to sustain and grow these much-loved services for the children and families of Dudley, offering essential support, engaging activities, and a range of opportunities that respond to the needs of our community."

 She said the trust recognised the importance of protecting and expanding resources for vulnerable groups, including children with special educational needs and disabilities, and would strive to deliver programmes that enriched their lives.

“By working collaboratively with Dudley Council and drawing on the passion and expertise of local volunteers, through a stakeholder engagement group, we aim to empower residents, schools, and families to help shape the centre’s future, ensuring Sycamore Adventure remains a flagship asset for generations to come,” she added.