'Blakenall matters’: Council announces refurb for popular Walsall community centre
Walsall Council has announced plans to redevelop a popular community centre in Blakenall.
The facility on Blakenall Row, commonly known as Palace Play Shop Eat, will undergo a significant refurb funded by the Government’s towns deal funding, New Horizons and Walsall Council.
Built in the 1980s, the Blakenall Community Centre’s current layout and facilities no longer meet modern expectations.
The centre is operated by Bloxwich Community Partnership, a long-established local charity with more than 45 years of service to communities in Walsall.
Originally founded as T P Riley Community Association in 1977, the partnership now delivers community, learning and wellbeing services across three centres, including Blakenall Community Centre.
The site has a strong focus on youth provision, holiday activities, alternative education and affordable children’s play.
Planned improvements include a new entrance and reception area for visitors, upgraded interiors and modernised spaces, a dedicated children’s play area, charity shop, youth facilities and improved accessibility features.
CEO Eleanor Boycott, on behalf of Bloxwich Community Partnership and New Horizons Community Enterprise, said: “We are delighted to have secured funding from the Towns Deal, New Horizons, and our own reserves to redevelop the Blakenall Centre.
“This investment sends a powerful message to our community, especially our children and young people that they deserve high quality, vibrant spaces.
“After many years of hard work, all the pieces have finally come together, and we are excited to create a safe, modern centre with dedicated youth areas and a new children’s soft play facility. We look forward to welcoming everyone through the doors of a place designed for our community to thrive.”
Councillor Adrian Andrew, deputy leader of Walsall Council: “This investment in Blakenall Community Centre is about much more than improving a building – it’s about investing in people and place.
“Community centres like this sit at the heart of our neighbourhoods, providing vital support for families, children and young people, and helping people stay connected, healthy and supported.
“By modernising and future-proofing the centre, we’re making sure local residents have access to high-quality, welcoming facilities that meet today’s needs and continue to serve the community for many years to come.
“It sends a clear message that Blakenall matters and that we are committed to supporting our communities to thrive.”
