Demolition work under way ahead of construction of new Telford community centre

Demolition work is under way to create a new community centre in Telford.

The work is taking place at Severn Walk in Sutton Hill, paving the way to replace the Hub on the Hill site.

Telford & Wrekin Council said the empty building at the rear of the Hub on the Hill, which it described as “very unsightly and attracting anti-social behaviour”, is being knocked down as part of the first phase of a project being managed by the authority, in partnership with Madeley Town Council.

The council said there will be overnight security while the demolition is taking place.

A statement from the council said: “The new community hub at 103 Southgate will provide improved and expanded services for residents and will play a key role in supporting community activities and wellbeing.

“The Hub on the Hill, which is managed by local people for local people, is in need of significant repairs so it is more cost effective to build a new facility rather than refurbishing the existing one.”

Plans for the ground floor of the new hub include a central atrium area for events, a cafe, a larger hall enabling more sports and leisure activities, a community library and a youth and education room.

A new neighbourhood health hub is also proposed for the first floor which can be used for a range of activities including health checks, mobile screening, vaccinations, and outpatient appointments, as well as a potentially meeting rooms for local partners and groups to use.

It is also proposed that the new hub will include improved outside space, with the possibility of an outdoor gym and a community garden.

An event is planned for October where residents will be asked to give their views on the plans.

Telford & Wrekin Council said it and local ward members and partners are “committed to working together to ensure that a new centre becomes a ‘one-stop shop’ hub for activities accessible to the local neighbourhoods”.

‘Now is the time’

Councillor Lee Carter, Telford & Wrekin Council leader, said: “These demolition works are the first part of an exciting project to bring a new community centre to Sutton Hill.

“Now is the time to redevelop this facility to create a new focal point for Sutton Hill, providing more services and facilities to help local people improve their health, gain qualifications and get a job, and maximise their household incomes.

“This project is all part of our commitment to make Sutton Hill and Telford and Wrekin a better place to live, learn, work and socialise.”

During the demolition of the current building at Severn Walk, there will be a temporary reduction in car parking provision - six spaces in total - in the surrounding area.

Councillor Helena Morgan, chair of Madeley Town Council, said: “The Hub on the Hill has been at the heart of Sutton Hill for many years, so it is fantastic to see this project moving forward.

"This is an opportunity to create a modern, welcoming hub that brings even more services and opportunities into the heart of the community. I would encourage residents to get involved and help shape what comes next.”

Councillor Paul Watling, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for adult social care and health and ward member for Madeley & Sutton Hill, said: “We’re really excited about this new development which will be a huge boost for everyone in Sutton Hill.

“The current Hub on the Hill has been a focal point of the community for decades and is a place where local people can meet, socialise and take part in essential community activities on their doorstep.

“Creating a new modern, facility will not only safeguard the hub’s future for generations to come, it will also enable additional facilities to be offered so these are really exciting times. We’re pleased to see the demolition works start.”