A new managing organisation has been appointed to take the helm at The Springwood Community Centre, in Waterlooville, following a formal process to secure a long-term operator.
Springwood Community Foundation will take up its formal role in 2024. The new operator will run the building to ensure it continues to provide a place for people to meet and a hub for many local sports teams and other groups, including a pre-school.
The centre, which Havant Borough Council owns, was forced to close temporarily after the previous operator Springwood Community Partnership, handed back the keys in September.
Havant Borough Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet lead for Communities and Housing, Councillor Gwen Robinson, said: “I am absolutely delighted that we have been able to appoint a new centre operator to deliver activities for the community and take the centre forward.”
“We look forward to working closely with Springwood Community Foundation, to make the most of the wide range of community facilities so they continue to offer something for everyone across the Waterlooville area.”
“We appreciate the importance of having local facilities that will benefit our residents now and in the future.”
Charlotte Waters and Lee McAll, joint leaseholders and trustees from Springwood Community Foundation, added "We are extremely elated to have been chosen to run Springwood Community Centre. We are committed to ensuring that the centre remains a welcoming and inclusive space for the entire community.
“Our mission is to enhance the current facilities and groups on offer and to introduce new ideas and events which cater to all ages. The team are excited about the new challenge, and we remain receptive to the ideas and feedback of the centre users and members of the community and will always strive to ensure that the Springwood Community Centre remains a space that caters to the diverse and the evolving needs of our neighbourhood."
The centre is also available for private hire for local people to use.