A COMMUNITY centre in Westbury opened its doors for the first time earlier this month, heralding a “huge boost to an upcoming community.”
Leigh Park Community Centre, next to the local shops off Mane Way, was opened by Andrew Murrison MP on Friday 4th of January.
The £750,000 centre boasts a café, bar, meeting room and a large hall with capacity for 200 people that can be divided into three smaller halls.
Debbie Cole, vice-chair of the Leigh Park Community Association said, “It is fantastic to see the centre finally complete and open. We already have 20 regular users booked in and a lot of one-off events, but the centre is open for anyone to use.”
Andrew Murrison MP said, “This centre will enhance what is an emerging and upcoming community, playing an important role in its vibrance.
“I am very impressed with the centre and all it has to offer and the hard work that has gone in to making the centre a possibility.”
Funding for the centre has come mostly through a Section 106 planning agreement with Persimmon which is the principal developer on the 1,200 home Leigh Park development.
Mayor of Westbury, cllr Sue Ezra said, “It’s a wonderful building. Let’s hope it stays popular to serve the community.”
In October, children from the nearby Westbury Leigh Primary School joined developers, community association members and Wiltshire Council representatives to bury a commemorative time capsule.
The pupils created a silk flag, and written work about school values and the Olympics for the capsule which also included contributions from Persimmon, construction contractors ISG, consultants Ridge and a jubilee flag and artwork from the Leigh Park Community Association.
Anyone interested in booking the hall or in volunteering to be part of the community project can contact John Rogers, Leigh Park Community Centre chairman, on 01373 858377. You can also email leighparkcommunitycentre@hotmail.co.uk
