Work has started on a new community hub based at the former council neighbourhood office at Botany Walk in Ladywood.
Berkeley St Joseph, the recently announced development partner for the regeneration of the Ladywood estate, is investing in substantial upgrading work for the building in order to create a new flexible space and facilities that can be used for events and other community activities.
The hub, which is expected to open in late 2025, will provide a new home for the Ladywood Community Project. The future of the organisation, which has supported thousands of local people with financial advice, advocacy and vital provisions for almost 40 years, will be safeguarded by the new facility.
The 5,000 sq ft community hub will also be the on-site home of the Berkeley St Joseph project team and a regular base for consultation and engagement with local residents. The work, which will include full refurbishment and landscaping works, will provide indoor and outdoor space for the community.
Berkeley St Joseph has leased the building from the council for a minimum of five years. A new permanent community hub will be built as part of regeneration works longer term.
Will Rimell, development director at Berkeley St Joseph, said: “We are excited to start work on our new community hub in Ladywood.
“Not only will the hub provide a modern, multi-purpose space for local people but it will be a home for the Ladywood Community Project, a vital organisation that has provided support and services to local people for almost 40 years.
“We are committed to supporting the Ladywood community and the new hub is a key part of how we plan to work closely with residents over the long term. With our team also based on site, we will be on hand to provide updates and information on the regeneration to residents.”
Caron Hallahan, co-ordinator at Ladywood Community Project, said: "The new Botany Walk hub will be a place for the community to gather, access support and influence regeneration plans for the Ladywood estate.
“The Ladywood Community Project has provided vital support to the community for nearly 40 years. After a worrying time, this commitment by Berkeley St Joseph means we, and others, can continue our work.
"It was important to us to remain in the centre of Ladywood and be a constant, visible presence for anyone who needs help. Being based at Botany Walk means we will be here when people need us.”
For further information and updates on the hub and regeneration works visit www.ladywoodcommunity.co.uk.
