The Challenge
When
the former Gloucestershire Resources Centre needed to move from
its Cheltenham base it found the ideal site in Alfred Street,
Gloucester.
The
resource centre is also known as a 'scrap store' which recycles
industrial waste into play materials for schools and playgroups.
With
the support of the City Council and the vision of individuals,
the former derelict factory site in a run down area was transformed.
Developing the idea
Re-named
City Works, the organisation impressed the City Council with
its proposals to regenerate the site.
 |
| City
Works was created from a derelict factory |
They
consisted of a highly enthusiastic group of individuals, with
a strong sense of motivation and initiative. They were also
prepared to undertake training, and seek professional support
to develop a business plan.
Making
it happen
The site had already been identified by the City Council as
a major regeneration challenge, and one which could attract
considerable external funding. Working in partnership with the
City Works team, the Council made successful bids for funding.
Keeping
it going
 |
| City
Works now contains officies and workshops |
The
formerly derelict factory site now contains offices and workshops
for voluntary organisations and craftspeople, meeting/conference
spaces, a dance hall and a childcare project, offering daily
childcare plus holiday playschemes.
In
addition, the site houses a Gymnasian, developed by members
of the local Asian community, and an after school club 'Cool
Runnings'.
The
site now comes under the auspices of the Barton, Tredworth and
Eastgate Community Trust. BTE Ltd owns a number of other premises,
which helps to generate income for the Trust's ongoing development
work.
Key tips
