Bentley Heath Community Centre re-opening welcomes praise - The Solihull Observer

Bentley Heath Community Centre re-opening welcomes praise

Solihull Editorial 30th Oct, 2015 Updated: 21st Oct, 2016   0

A £31,000 REFURBISHMENT to Bentley Heath Community Centre was celebrated by over 150 people.

Attended by the Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Glenis Slater, and local MP, Caroline Spelman, the day showcased what the fresh look to one of the areas most popular community spots had to offer.

Representatives of funders, users of the centre and members of the public popped in to enjoy tea and cake whilst taking in the new surroundings.

A dozen community groups, who meet regularly at the centre, had stands to display the types of activities on offer – with special kick-boxing, tai chi and line dancing groups displaying their talents.




Located on Widney Road, Bentley Heath community centre was originally opened by the Mayor of Solihull in 1954 – and now its facilities have been made more comfortable, attractive and fit-for-purpose.

An upgraded kitchen, including new cupboards, a fridge and a unit for instant hot water, is already benefiting visitors.


The hall’s windows are now double-glazed and the toilets have been refurbished – including the baby-changing area.

Funding for the work, which was led by the Bentley Heath Community Association, came from the association’s own reserves and The Veolia Environmental Trust who awarded a grant of £24,983 through the Landfill Communities Fund.

Bentley Heath community Association’s lettings secretary, Alan Lang, said: “These improvements mean that the centre can continue to be a focus for a wide range of activities for people of all ages and backgrounds.

“We are thrilled and excited that work is now complete and are grateful to The Veolia Environmental Trust for enabling this to happen.”

Caroline Spelman MP thanked the local residents in Bentley Heath for inviting her to celebrate the opening of the newly refurbished community centre.

She added: “It was a real pleasure to be able to join members of the community at the opening ceremony, and to talk to some of the community groups and clubs who regularly use this facility.

“I am pleased that the community centre, having served the residents Bentley Heath for more than 60 years, has been given a new lease of life through the combined efforts of Bentley Heath Community Association and The Veolia Environmental Trust.”

The executive director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, Paul Taylor, said: “Centres like this one play a vital role in our communities and it is one of our priorities to ensure that they meet modern standards and can be enjoyed by the whole community.

“I am glad that Saturday’s event was a success and I hope the improved centre is used and enjoyed by the community for many years to come.”

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