The future is in our hands

A GROUP of local residents have become the first in the borough to take control of a council building.

Springhead Community Group will take full charge of the community centre in Ashes Lane having signed a 30-year lease.

The deal with Oldham Council is the first ever community asset transfer to a neighbourhood organisation. The group will offer a range of services to residents including painting and art sessions, dance classes, a children’s nursery and cafe and kitchen facilities.

The building will also house offices and a computer room.

Bob Hoath, of Springhead Community Group, said: “First and foremost, our purpose is to operate on behalf of the residents who use the centre.

“With this lease we are now able to respond better to local needs and have greater control of what we provide to residents.

“By working co-operatively with Oldham Council we’re able to a have bigger stake — and a bigger responsibility — in our community.

“This is about looking after ourselves and doing our bit.”

The move comes as part of the council’s mission to find new uses for buildings that are surplus to requirements.

It is hoped the transfer will also inspire others to consider the same approach where properties are declared surplus and no alternative uses are identified or bids received.

Councillor Dave Hibbert, Cabinet member for housing, transport and regeneration, said: “We’re delighted that we’ve been able to work closely with the local community here in a way that benefits Springhead residents by giving them a greater stake in their neighbourhood.

“This gives local residents a greater say in their areas while also enabling us to use resources more efficiently and reduce the cost to council taxpayers.”

“This is the co-operative borough in action — Oldham Council working alongside the local community to find a solution that is mutually beneficial.”