Story by Rob Smith
Based at 64 to 68a Spital Hill, the Spital Hill Plaza & Function Room project has already attracted interest from a large section of our community’s small enterprises.
A florist, fish market, clothing sales, barber and beauty salon, blending with a charity shop while above that sits a large function room. These things are already earmarked for Burngreave’s first shopping plaza.
“Today the finishing touches are being made to complete a seven-year dream,” explained Mr Nigel Ramsey, owner of Spiritual Wines and a man I began to see not only as an entrepreneur but possible future community champion. Nigel has been developing the enterprise with business partner Chris Gordon, but the hands-on work has been a real team effort.
Nigel wanted to thank the many people who’ve helped make this project happen, “especially my family, a special thanks to our personal electrician Eva, who wired the whole building, and all the members of our community who worked work hard free of charge.”
Spital Hill Plaza & Function Room opens in September 2004, signalling for many the beginning of a new era for our community and a lot more.
For information on unit spaces, retail outlets or function room events and bookings, contact Nigel Ramsey on 278 7668.
Restoration Charity Shop
Meeting some of those taking up units inside the plaza I was greeted warmly by Pastor Joy Muzumala, a member of Restoration Family Ministries. Their shop will bid to raise funds for those less privileged in this community and around the world.
“Our organisation originated in Africa and has many churches in the poor districts of South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe,” explained Joy, appealing to those more fortunate, with clothes, toys or other items to donate, to contact the shop on 243 9981.
“I believe this joint African and Caribbean retail plaza is a brilliant idea that must benefit a community changing for the better. I hope all our people will take responsibility and pride in this new enterprise and its leadership.”
The Dance School
Ballet, tap and dance will take place up stairs in the function room for both male and females of all ages and abilities. Dance teacher, Laura Windle, used to dance and teach at Margaret Harding’s Dance School that was once situated above Keith Laycock’s.
“Limbering up will be the main classes, teaching everyone to concentrate on stretching.This will be in preparation for moving onto other classes or just want to tone up their body.”
Other classes will include street dancing, traditional tap and freestyle. Pupils will be encouraged to take part in training, competitions and shows. To enrol children or to be involved in dance teaching or performance speak to Laura on 0776 694 2150.
Black Dragons Martial Arts
The Black Dragons martial arts group was established back in the1980s by Denton Wilson and Tony Sinclair. “The Black Dragons are a force to be reckoned with,” laughed Tony.
“As you know this entails working with local youths and we are looking to re-establish self defence, keep fit and self discipline. We will be training upstairs in the Plaza function rooms twice a week and this is open to everybody.”
Tony also added how nice it is to see local black people putting positive things back into the community.
Mombassa Fisheries
Zuleo Matthias and Saidi Msigiti are happy to be back in the heart of our community. “We have been in Castle Market and Park Hill,” explained Saidi. “People from Burngreave have followed and supported us where ever we’ve been,” added Zuleo. “Now we are back Burngreave we will continue to be fish specialists.”
Mombassa imports fresh frozen fish from tropical islands and others from oceans and seas all over the world.
“We will also be a Halal butchery selling chicken, fresh meat and goat, fruit and vegetables, plantain, yam, sweet potato and okra,” adds Saidi, “and we are doing a free delivery service taking phone orders, gutting fish, cleaning meat and de-scaling all fish purchases.”
For further information call 275 4408.
The Blue Mountain Café Bar
Café bar and patisserie blending an aroma of coffees from all over the world. Joint proprietor Steven Mongoose Naylor (right) explains the plans they have.
“We intend to provide an up-market style café bar Rob, serving espressos, lattes, mochas as well as tropical, herb and different specialist teas, sandwiches, cream cakes, biscuits and ice cream. The Blue Mountain, situated at the main entrance, will have fairweather designer outdoor seating.”
Hair R’ Us
Adrian Melhado is already an established black barber in the area. Here since 2001, he has been working out of Andrea’s shop on Spital Hill.
“I have over twelve years hair managing experience behind me,” he adds with confidence. “I cater for all African and Caribbean hair styles from plaits, perms, corn rows and all style of cuts.”
He believes that finally moving into his own affordable premises in the plaza, will not only benefit his customers but also himself.
“I’d like to say enough respect Rob, to Nigel and Chris for their hard work on an idea that will do a lot for people and the community.”