Walsall Council has unveiled ambitious plans for a comprehensive refurbishment of the popular Blakenall Community Centre, signalling a substantial investment in local community infrastructure. The facility, located on Blakenall Row and affectionately known as Palace Play Shop Eat, will undergo transformative improvements funded through a collaborative effort involving the government's Towns Deal funding, New Horizons Community Enterprise, and Walsall Council's own resources.
Modernising a Community Hub
Originally constructed during the 1980s, the Blakenall Community Centre currently operates with a layout and facilities that no longer align with contemporary community needs and expectations. The planned redevelopment aims to address these shortcomings by creating a more functional, accessible, and inviting space for all residents.
Key Improvements and New Features
The refurbishment project encompasses a wide range of enhancements designed to revitalise the centre. These include:
- A completely new entrance and reception area to provide a welcoming first impression for visitors
- Comprehensive interior upgrades and modernisation of existing spaces throughout the building
- A dedicated children's play area featuring soft play facilities
- Enhanced youth provision with improved facilities for young people
- A charity shop space to support community initiatives
- Significant accessibility improvements to ensure the centre can be used by everyone
Partnership and Community Focus
The centre is operated by Bloxwich Community Partnership, a well-established local charity with over 45 years of service to communities across Walsall. Originally founded as the T P Riley Community Association in 1977, the partnership now delivers community, learning, and wellbeing services across three centres, including the Blakenall facility.
Eleanor Boycott, CEO representing both Bloxwich Community Partnership and New Horizons Community Enterprise, expressed enthusiasm about the project: "We are delighted to have secured funding from the Towns Deal, New Horizons, and our own reserves to redevelop the Blakenall Centre. This investment sends a powerful message to our community, especially our children and young people, that they deserve high quality, vibrant spaces."
"After many years of hard work, all the pieces have finally come together, and we are excited to create a safe, modern centre with dedicated youth areas and a new children's soft play facility. We look forward to welcoming everyone through the doors of a place designed for our community to thrive," she added.
Council Commitment to Community Investment
Councillor Adrian Andrew, deputy leader of Walsall Council, emphasised the broader significance of the investment: "This investment in Blakenall Community Centre is about much more than improving a building – it's about investing in people and place. Community centres like this sit at the heart of our neighbourhoods, providing vital support for families, children and young people, and helping people stay connected, healthy and supported."
"By modernising and future-proofing the centre, we're making sure local residents have access to high-quality, welcoming facilities that meet today's needs and continue to serve the community for many years to come. It sends a clear message that Blakenall matters and that we are committed to supporting our communities to thrive," he concluded.
The centre has traditionally maintained a strong focus on youth provision, holiday activities, alternative education opportunities, and affordable children's play facilities. The refurbishment aims to enhance these existing services while introducing new features that will benefit the entire community.
