TWO Malvern community centres will soon be taken over by new management ensuring they continue to serve local people in need.
The hubs – Malvern Vale and Upton Hill Community Centres – are currently managed by YMCA Worcestershire and will be taken over by Freedom Leisure on February 1, 2024 following approval from Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC).
At an executive committee meeting in November, MHDC approved YMCA Worcestershire’s application to end its management of the centres and to allocate up to £56,000 of council reserves to support operational costs.
YMCA made the decision following an internal review to refocus on developing its core services.
Mick York, head of business development at YMCA Worcestershire, said: “Since taking on the custodianship of these vital community spaces, YMCA Worcestershire has been honoured to serve the residents of Malvern Vale and Upton.
“We express our heartfelt appreciation for the support received from the community and acknowledge the privilege it has been to contribute to the well-being of these neighbourhoods.”
Freedom Leisure will focus on delivering opportunities and services at each centre by working with local communities and partners, as well as delivering specialist Freedom Leisure activities.
Rob Tyler, area manager at Freedom Leisure, said: “Freedom Leisure is thrilled to be working in partnership with Malvern Hills District Council.
““We share the council’s vision for the centres to become vibrant and viable community health hubs, that meet the unique needs of each community, help reduce health inequalities, and improve the social wellbeing and lives of the people of Malvern.”
All existing bookings for events and activities at both centres will still be honoured by the YMCA up until 31 January 2024. Bookings after this date will be transferred over.
Councillor Tom Wells, portfolio holder for community services at MHDC said: “The council would like to thank the staff at YMCA Worcestershire for their continued hard work and dedication to serving the community over the years.
“We wish them luck for the future.
“We look forward to seeing Freedom Leisure’s plans come to fruition and the benefit it will have on the community.
“The move fits with the council’s vision for wellness in the Malvern Hills and how leisure is essential for community wellbeing, developing relationships, and more.”
Email Malvern Vale Community Centre: [email protected] or Upton Hill Community Centre: [email protected] for more information.
