Wolverhampton tenants' group praised for securing community centre

Councillors in Bushbury, Wolverhampton, praised the 'tireless' work of Lincoln Green Tenants and Residents Association, led by Diane Brookshaw and Theresa Phillips, in helping to secure the centre.

The new Bushbury Community Hub will be based in a former shop in Broadway shopping parade and will provide a much-needed space for local people to come together, host activities and access community services. 

As part of the project, the local library will also be relocated from the care home site to the new hub, helping to create a single, accessible focal point for residents.

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The initiative stems from the efforts of the association in securing a permanent base for community activities, supported by councillors Paul Appleby, Andrew McNeil and Simon Bennett, which led to the council committing to the development.

Councillor Paul Appleby said that what began as a small residents’ group seeking space to run their activities had now resulted in a major step forward for the area. 

“This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the dedication of local people, and it has the potential to kick start lots of other valuable community projects in the future,” he said.

Councillor Andrew McNeil added that it had been a privilege to work alongside residents to help bring the project to life.

“This new hub will bring people together and strengthen the sense of community in Bushbury and Fordhouses,” he said.

Councillor Simon Bennett, who is also leader of the Wolverhampton Council's opposition Conservative group, praised the project as a model for how the council and residents could work together effectively. 

“This is exactly the kind of community-led initiative we want to see across Wolverhampton: Residents taking the lead, councillors providing support, and the council listening. It shows what can be achieved when we all work together.”