Photo - Alan Mak MP helps to open the new Denvilles community centre
Havant MP Alan Mak praised the efforts of local apprentices and supportive residents at the opening of the new Stride community centre in Denvilles. The recently completed project will provide space for a range of community groups, clubs and activities.
Mr Mak spoke at the opening ceremony, supporting the centre as a prime example of what community-inspired planning and building can achieve.
The Stride Centre has been built by Barratt David Wilson (BDW) homes as part of their community obligations at the Nursery Fields development in Denvilles. The centre will seat over 80 people, and has kitchen and toilet facilities, together with a secure car park.
BDW’s site at Nursery Fields includes a number of three, four and five bedroom homes designed in-line with the Government’s Help to Buy scheme. At the centre of the new development sits the state-of-the-art Stride Centre, which has been built exclusively by local apprentices.
Alan Mak has been a keen supporter of the project throughout its construction, having visited the site with Housing Minister Brandon Lewis in February 2016. The Havant MP praised the project’s local resonance, backing the Community Interest Company who will run Stride for the benefit of local residents. Meanwhile, the equipment and furnishings for the centre are being provided by resident media producers Postcode Publications Ltd.
Following the opening, Mak said: “I was delighted to open the new Stride community centre, which provides the residents of Denvilles with a state-of-the-art facility for community groups and societies.”
The Havant MP added: “It is fantastic to see the apprentices from Barratt David Wilson building this excellent new facility. Their hard work and skill has produced a community centre that will be an exciting and well-used hub for years to come.”
Councillor Tim Pike said: "It is great to see the completion of the Stride Centre - a huge step forward in community facilities for the Warblington and Denvilles area.”
Cllr Pike added: “I am looking forward to seeing the centre busy with local residents participating in the wide range of activities we hope to offer. I am delighted to have our MP Alan Mak, participating in the opening ceremony along with our builders, supporters and local residents."