Community Association—We’ve got a Spring in our step again!
COVID might have closed us down but it certainly didn’t knock us out! In fact, in the past few months of the lockdown we have been busy getting things done and preparing for better times - we hope. On the getting things done front - with the help of a grant from international Engineering Company WSP, we have insulated the Community Centre north wall to the latest energy saving standard. This means not only that it performs well by retaining heat but also you can’t see any changes on the inside. The before and after photos taken by our recently acquired Thermal Imaging Camera proves the effectiveness of adding insulation. The newly installed solar panels are now generating electricity for us and the display screen in the entrance hallway is recording the energy made in real time, over their lifetime and the amount of CO2 saved. Over the next couple of months, we will be doing maintenance work to the grounds, trimming overhanging branches, painting the Youth Shelter and gates and improving safety in the children’s playground. By June, when we hope the end of restrictions happens, the Centre will be spruced up and ready for use. As we travel along the Government road map, the Centre will be progressively opening up. The Before and After School Club is already operating. Other regular groups and activities such as the Scout groups, What the Dickens, Baby Sensory, and Daisy Foundation (post and ante-natal) groups are preparing to restart. We are taking bookings for parties on a no risk provisional basis - hirers must demonstrate they are complying to Government guidelines and the Association’s Ts & Cs. We don’t want to be the source of any possible COVID outbreaks. Sadly, it’s not all good news. Unfortunately, the pandemic has meant that our long-term client, Bee Able, who provided fortnightly respite for Parents looking after children with disabilities, has had to retrench and withdraw from the Centre. The COVID secure cleaning regime was just too much for them to cope with, plus they decided to just run from one venue . Also, the Mums and Tots playgroup ‘Little Monkeys’ has paused while new leadership is sought, and the group, which has run for over 30 years, can re-established. If anyone is interested in making it happen, please get in touch with Sally (Bookings Secretary) on 07790 018745 or email thecommunitycentre@outlook.com The really good news is that we are starting to consider staging a community event, to celebrate the end of the lockdowns, so, ‘Save the dates’ for the weekend of 17/18 September - and let’s just hope it can become a reality! But don’t hold your breath yet!
Finally, the CA will be inviting all residents to either renew or apply for membership in the next month or so. Under the terms of our charitable status, it is important for us to have active members of the Community Association, as well as the regular support of our committee members and Trustees. Please respond to the newsletter which will be coming through your letter box with the membership form and more CA news. The sun is shining - better times are ahead - and we look forward to seeing you soon. Robin Parkin Chair and Trustee
7
