Alliance Homes and local residents have celebrated the reopening of the Coronation Community Hub, one of four community hubs owned by the housing association in Weston-super-Mare.
The Coronation Community Hub has reopened following a £50,000 refurbishment by Alliance Homes, with support from Ashcroft Services.
The community hub opened in 2019 as part of the Our Neighbourhood Network initiative – a National Lottery-funded programme delivered by Alliance Homes and The For All Healthy Living Centre - aimed at improving resilience and wellbeing in the Bournville, Coronation and Oldmixon neighbourhoods.
(L to R: Alliance Homes’ Chief Operating Officer, Iain Lock with Community Growth Manager Helen Wheelock and resident Jayne Williams)
The hub hosts a range of community-led activities, including a knitting and crafts club, as well as LGBT+ support groups.
The newly refurbished space now features an accessible layout with an automatic front door and wheelchair-friendly toilet, better lighting to support community events and activities, as well as an improved heating system.
(Local residents joined in the reopening celebrations)
The celebration saw local resident, Jayne Williams, who has lived in the Coronation neighbourhood for more than 60 years, growing up in the house she lives in today, officially reopen the hub alongside Alliance Homes’ Chief Operating Officer, Iain Lock.
Jayne said:
“I’ve been coming to the community hub since it first opened and it has made such a difference to me, especially during some difficult times. I’ve made friends here, and I love getting involved in the craft and colouring activities. I’m so happy it’s open again, and I can’t wait for the next coffee morning.”
Iain Lock added:
“It’s fantastic to celebrate the reopening of the Coronation Community Hub with Jayne and other residents today. Supporting thriving communities is at the heart of what we do, and investing in spaces like the hub plays a big part in that. It’s clear just how much the hub means to local people and the difference it’s already made. I can’t wait to see what’s next.”
(Smiles all around as families enjoy face painting fun)
(Event attendees dancing together)
(Smiles all around as families enjoy face painting fun)
The celebration included music from jazz singer Marvin Mouneké, with dancing, face painting, and even a community-led yoga session.
Alliance Homes’ Community Growth Manager Helen Wheelock, who manages the community hubs, added:
“Today's celebration is all about creating a strong sense of belonging and connection. Our hubs give residents a place to get together, share experiences and build relationships."
If you live in Coronation, Bournville, or Oldmixon neighbourhoods and want to get involved in one of Alliance Homes’ community hubs, you can find them here:
- Oldmixon Community Hub - 7 Aller Parade, Oldmixon, Weston-super-Mare, BS24 9DD
- Coronation Community Hub - 3 Loxton Road, Coronation, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 4QX
- Bournville Community Hub - The Sub Station, St Andrews Parade, Bournville, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 3SS
- Outdoor Community Hub - Coleridge Road Community Gardens - Between houses 65 and 67, Coleridge Road, Weston-super-Mare BS23 3UJ.
Alternatively, get in touch by emailing communityhubs@alliancehomes.org.uk.