Agenda item

Burton Stone Community Centre Update – Andy Hazlet

Andy Laslett (CYC) informed the meeting that he was responsible for 5 community centres in York including Burton Stone Community Centre.  It was noted that at the present time there were no plans to change the way the centres were operating, however in the next 12- 18 months decisions would be made regarding their future.  Therefore CYC would like to start conversations regarding the buildings, usage and whether they are meeting the needs of the local communities.

It was noted that recent condition survey did highlight some potential costs in the future and Cllr Waller would be leading a review into the community centre buildings across the city.  Mr Laslett informed the meeting he would like to start conversations regarding the usage of the Burton Stone Community Centre for example;

·        Which community spaces are used?

·        Who uses the building?

·        If another community building was used, what would be the best location?

It was noted that Mr Laslett would like to involve residents in working groups to look at these areas amongst others.

What is the current budget for Burton Stone Community Centre?

£15,000 this year, previously it had been £80,000 with 5 members of staff.  The community centre currently has 2 part time members of staff and consequently opens less frequently.

Are the users from Clifton?

It is estimated that 60% of the users are not from Clifton, a previous meeting saw 3 residents attend from a crowd of approximately 100.

Would the consultation take into account the closure of Bootham Crescent football ground?

The consultation would include information from other buildings which could potentially be used for community activities.

Would meetings be held in the evenings?

Evening meetings would be possible as the community centre is open until 10pm on certain evenings and not all rooms are in use.

Is the £15,000 per annum budget planned to continue?

Yes the budget is currently in place for the future years.  The budget will need to be managed as there are possible major repairs such as boilers which will need to be planned for.

It was noted that Clifton Green Primary School is interested in developing community links and would like to work together with the council to house community activities in the school and children’s centre.

Mr Laslett informed the meeting that the majority of the community do not have a preference to where the activities are housed.

Is the budget the same for all the community centres across the city?

Yes but the others have voluntary management committee; Burton Stone Community Centre is managed by CYC.  It is hoped that all the community centres will be involved in a forum to share knowledge and best practice.

What capacity is Burton Stone Community Centre running at?

There are currently rooms available however staff time needs to equate to usage therefore it is often necessary to sell the space first before allocating staff.

Mr Laslett thanked the meeting for the opportunity to begin the conversations and informed residents there would be a number of different events hosted where conversations could be held.

Cllr Myers thanked Mr Laslett.