2 weeks Ago By [email protected] (Tristan Cork)
A new community hub has opened in one of the fastest-changing streets in Bristol, with the locals behind it calling for more volunteers to come together and help run the place. The Bedminster Community Hub is now up and running in an empty store at the front of the St Catherine’s Place shopping centre on East Street, with those behind the project aiming to breathe new life to East Street as the area around changes rapidly. The creation of a community hub was one of the key recommendations of a report by the Government’s High Streets Task Force , when they visited East Street and warned that unless a series of measures were taken by the city council, business leaders and the community, the character and value of the main shopping street in Bedminster would be lost to the forces of gentrification .
Already this autumn, more than 800 students have moved in just around the corner , and hundreds more flats and student buildings are nearing completion or being proposed nearby. Creating a community hub, along with other projects like one to secure and support traditional local shops in East Street and get empty shops back into use again, is seen as a key way of keeping East Street’s community spirit in the face of the change. “The area around East Street is changing so fast, and we’re here to reflect that change and make sure it benefits local people,” explained Community Hub Coordinator, James Burden.
“The hub sits right at the heart of the regenerated Bedminster, surrounded by a tight network of roads, pedestrian routes, homes and businesses. “There are so many impressive new housing schemes for students, families and all sorts of households nearby, plus exciting new commercial spaces to complement the existing shops and cafés,” he added. With other Bedminster spaces being lost to the community - including the United Reformed Church on West Street and Jubilee Hall on Wedmore Vale - the creation of a community hub in the middle of East Street is providing residents old and new with a flexible place to go.
Everything from free dance classes, cookery courses, arts and crafts workshops, music, health fitness, wellbeing and even bike maintenance is already taking place at 47 East Street. The community hub shares the former store with the Bedminster Library of Things, which is operated by Share Bristol and opened back in June. “We’re open for business and want the Hub to be the go-to place to go to in East Street,” explained James.
“So if you’re looking for something different, interesting and enjoyable to do, or if you can run a session to reach and engage people, we’d like to hear from you. All ideas considered,” he added. Bristol-based ‘advocate for self-expression’ Libby Farrow has already led a number of events at the Hub, including ‘Body Moves’ dance workshops and a ‘She Shanties’ evening.
“My sessions are all about helping people to discover their creativity and express themselves in the friendly company of others,” she said. “The Hub is really central and easy to find – there’s a cosy atmosphere and it definitely brings something different to East Street. I love the idea that people can look in, see what’s going on and feel confident to come along themselves next time,” she added.
The hub needs more volunteers to expand and grow. “To keep the Community Hub busy and running in the longer term, Share Bristol is seeking people who can spare a few hours to help open, close and supervise the building while it’s hosting events,” said a spokesperson. “This is a voluntary role, and while there’s no pay involved, volunteers will become part of a diverse and supportive group, with the chance to gain strong skills and experience to boost their CVs,” she added.
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