Boost for Springhill community centre

SPRINGHILL Community Centre is set to get a massive boost as the local council is preparing to purchase the site it sits on.

The centre which is a hub of activity for local residents and young people has been in operation for over 20 years.
The council has now opted to purchase the site from the Housing Executive. In 1998 the Housing Executive signed a long term lease to allow the operation of the community centre.

At a recent meeting of council’s business and culture committee two proposals were brought forward for the community centre – one to lease it for 25 years at a cost of £17,500 or alternatively to buy the site for £20,000.

Cllr Jason Barr proposed the council buy the land in the hope of providing a new centre for local people.

Cllr Barr explained, “I proposed council buy the land where the community centre sits. This will be brilliant news for the area.

“This progress will be the first step in the development of a new community centre in the hopefully not too distant future. This will also afford the Springhill Park Area Residents and Youth Association to plan for the future. Well done to the community for pushing for this to become a reality. I am glad to have a played a small part in this.”
The thriving community centre already has an after-school programme running, a seniors club, a ladies group, mothers and toddlers programme and other activities for people of all ages.

A new community centre has been on the cards for a number of years, and it is hoped the purchase of the land will lead to that provision.

Cllr Paul Gallagher also welcomed the move and said it will be very beneficial for the area.
“The centre, which is currently a portacabin, went up in 1998 and it is passed its shelf life. With the council owning the land, there could be the possibility of providing a new community centre for the area and that is very positive.”