As a result of the work undertaken by Mobilise, Wormley and Turnford Big Local has a centre in which to host events, activities, advice and health surgeries that benefit the community.
Photos courtesy of Wormley and Turnford Big Local
Wormley and Turnford is one of 150 areas around the country that were selected by the National Lottery to take part in the Big Local programme. Each Big Local area received a grant of £1 million from the National Lottery Community Fund to spend over 10 or more years on things that local people felt would benefit the community.
The Project
Local residents wanted a place at the centre of the community where they could meet, hold events and participate in activities. Wormley Community Centre is at the heart of the Big Local area. When Wormley and Turnford Big Local (WTBL) heard that the Community Centre might be closing down, negotiations began with Broxbourne Council and Mobilise was appointed to undertake feasibility work to support their ambition to acquire and manage Wormley Community Centre.
Our Approach
Mobilise undertook a feasibility study to help WTBL understand the local marketplace, the current operation and finances of the centre, and the potential for public sector partner involvement. A community engagement exercise established local demand for the centre, and a full business plan for the centre was developed. Mobilise continued to support WTBL in their work to secure, refurbish and transform Wormley Community Centre from a hall for hire to a destination community facility. In addition, Mobilise led the negotiations with Broxbourne Borough Council enabling the asset to be transferred at a peppercorn rent, and helped ensure the necessary expertise was developed within WTBL to manage the centre.
Impact
Wormley Community Centre re-opened post-Covid in 2021. It plays an important part in the delivery of outcomes the WTBL programme addresses as well as providing a lasting legacy for the community. Supported by Mobilise, WTBL has a centre in which to host events, activities, advice and health surgeries that benefit the community.