Covent Garden Community Trust

The CGCA has been involved in drawing up a strategy with Camden Council for a community facility within the former Holborn Town Hall in Stukeley Street, since 1988. We have been monitoring the potential for this facility in order to establish the possible range of activities to be provided within the broad "community use" description. The CGCA has researched local opinion in a formal and informal manner; we have solicited ideas from local resident and tenant associations, existing community organisations and by inviting views directly through the local newspaper as well as by letters to local groups. Our recent focus has been on identifying potential users whose needs and budgets will enable the Trust to be financially self-sufficient. The principal source of revenue will be the Hall within the new Centre. Potential uses include classes for Stage Fighting, Classical Ballet & Contemporary Play rehearsals, Large choirs, Opera rehearsals, Interactive Music Appreciation Workshops, Jazz Dance, Health and fitness, Indoor Team Games, PE and Demonstrations, Project Work involving parents, after school clubs and ITC room - with computers.

Achieving financial independence will enable the Trust to offer "non-income generating" facilities within the Centre. The scope for such facilities is enormous depending on the surplus income available. We anticipate for example running a Covent Garden based Good Neighbour Scheme for the elderly for which our research shows demand. We will also explore the potential for Library provision (there is currently no children's library in the area) and an exhibition area.

Our main tasks ahead are to
1. finalise the long lease on the premises from Camden Council
2. ensure the optimum spatial layout in the proposed accommodation
3. appoint a Management Committee of enthusiastic volunteers
4. appoint a suitable Co-ordinator and back-up staff.

We have already prepared a 'business' plan, set up the company and applied to the Charity Commissioners for charitable status.

We anticipate the centre, when it opens next autumn, becoming a focal point for the community, combining the existing activities of the CGCA with new activity orientated resource provision. We will work in close association with existing facilities such as the Covent Garden Community Centre, currently closed due to the unfortunate fire in the Seven Dials Warehouse, and Jubilee Hall Sports Club.

Anyone interested in further information on this exciting venture should contact John Bos at the CGCA.

Douglas Rose

 

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