'We have stuck to the principles of what local people wanted': Long-awaited community hub opens in Bloxwich
A new community space has officially opened, promising to empower residents and provide support and opportunities for residents of Bloxwich.
The Local Hub on Sneyd Lane, Bloxwich, is a legacy project from a £1 million grant which was awarded to community organisation Mossley Big Local in 2012.
The organisation had a resident-led committee which asked the community what they thought was needed to improve the area, and calls were made for a community hub.
The former Mossley Youth Club, which closed in 2016, was purchased from Walsall Council and, since then, has undergone a huge refurbishment, a project totalling around half a million pounds.
Thirteen years after the grant was first awarded, the facility has now opened, offering a variety of spaces available for classes, events, and other uses, plus a play area and community pantry.
Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Louise Harrison, said: “This space is much more than just a building, it’s a place where people can come together, and access support and services.
“This moment is a result of 13 years of dedication, hard work and belief in our local community and what they can achieve. When we all come together for a shared purpose, great things can happen.”
Overseeing the hub, charity development executive officer Angela Virdee said: “It’s a space that can be used by people who need to get into employment and need volunteering opportunities.
“We can increase their confidence, up-skill them and make them more employable. This is what community is: all backgrounds, all ages, coming together.”
Chris Allen, trust advisor to Mossley Big Local, said: “We had one rule for the local trust and how the money was spent – it had to be decided by the people who live in the area.
“We have stuck to the principles of what local people wanted, and that’s what really matters. Because of that, I think it’s going to be an incredible success.”
Councillor Matt Follows, ward member for Bloxwich West, said: “It’s a real achievement that’s been a resident-led initiative, and I think it’s going to be a fantastic space for future generations to come.”
