Northolt Hub Celebrates Overdue Makeover
The Smith's Farm Community Centre proved essential during lockdown
Smith's Farm Community Centre. Picture: Facebook
Users of a community centre in Northolt are celebrating after a campaign to raise funds for a refurbishment resulted in a makeover for the building.
The Smith’s Farm Community Centre had been run down for several years with windows and frames missing, wooden frames rotten and a general appearance that was described as ‘very unwelcoming and sad looking’.
The centre is run by volunteers who have worked tirelessly over the years, especially during the last 18 months providing a foodbank and delivering supplies to local people. They have found furniture for people in need, for example elderly people with no beds or kitchen facilities, and have supported people who have been isolated and lonely throughout the lockdown and are helping them to integrate back into the world.
Jen Lock, Smith's Farm Community Centre Manager said, “For many years we tried to get the council to do major important works on the building but it was suggested it might be knocked down and replaced with flats. This was very sad for our community and we fought hard against this happening. Finally, the council gave us new windows, cladding and doors, this transformed out community hub and we are very grateful for the works that have been completed and would like to recognise and thank the council for investing in a much-needed cause.”
Just after the works by the council were completed, Virgin Media offered to help and provided planters, a patio, hanging baskets and flowers, a sensory herb garden, painted the inside and all at no cost to the centre.
Jen Lock said, “This has completely transformed our Centre and now residents are taking pride in looking after the flowers etc. We have been given a new lease of life.”
They are now planning an open afternoon to which they have invited MP James Murray, local councillor Julian Bell, and representatives from Virgin Media.
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September 2, 2021
