The Whitfield community in Glossop is celebrating a significant victory as the Whitfield Community Centre, formerly known as the Pure Vibes Whitfield Youth and Community Centre, has been successfully acquired by local residents who formed a community interest company. This achievement, which was had many bumps along the road, secures this vital space for the community to meet, play and support one another.
In August last year, Derbyshire County Council closed the doors at the historic Ebenezer Street building, which had served as a youth and community centre since the 1960s. In response, a dedicated group of activists, including the Whitfield Food Club, two local churches, The Bureau and supportive local councillors and MP for High Peak Jon Pearce, embarked on a mission to reclaim the centre for community use. After nine months of relentless effort, their determination has paid off, and the centre is now under community ownership.
Steve Pettifer, Chair of the community interest company that facilitated the purchase, expressed his enthusiasm:
“This is a monumental day for Whitfield. Our community has shown incredible resilience and unity in securing this centre. Now, we look forward to revitalising it as a hub for events, meetings, and services that cater to all.”
Local Labour Councillor Damien Greenhalgh, who supported the campaign throughout the struggles, remarked:
“Despite the initial challenge and continued barriers posed by the Conservative-run Derbyshire County Council, our community’s spirit never wavered. This centre’s revival stands as a testament to what we can achieve when we come together for a common cause. It’s a big win for our community.”
Jon Pearce, Labour MP for High Peak, lauded the community’s dedication:
“I am delighted that we have managed to save this wonderful centre for the community to use for decades to come. The reopening of the Whitfield Community Centre is a shining example of people power over wrongheaded decisions taken far away from High Peak in Matlock. I commend everyone involved for their unwavering commitment to preserving this essential community space and look forwarded to being able to pop in in the years to come.
“The centre now offers 500 square metres of space, available for public and private events, meetings, and offices. The community is actively seeking volunteers and support to rejuvenate the facility. “
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