Partners unite to secure civic centre's future

A civic hub has been saved from potential closure thanks to a housing association-led project.

Gentoo joined forces with contracting partners to repair the roof of St Bede’s Community Centre, in Town End Farm, Sunderland.

Workers re-felted the building’s flat roof and repaired its hall ceiling, with officials saying the improvements have staved off closure fears.

The scheme – completed outside Sunderland-headquartered Gentoo’s working hours – was carried out by staff from the housing association’s repairs team alongside Jewson, Burton Roofing, Group Tegula and Allscaff.

Councillor Allison Chisnall said: “Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart to everyone involved.

“A lot of people were fearful we were going to have to close the building but, thanks to Gentoo and all involved, we now don’t have to.”

Marc Edwards, Gentoo executive director of property, said: “It was an honour to help St Bede’s Community Centre and enable its main hall to be used again.

“Community centres like this make our neighbourhoods thrive, and we were delighted to bring it back to life.”

Darrin Arkley, Burton Roofing branch manager, added: “It was a pleasure to help a local community project.

“We always strive to help local communities around our depots, but this one tugged at my heartstrings as I grew up in Town End Farm as a young boy.”  

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