Hundreds gather for centre opening

Story: Lisa Harrison. Photos: Rohan Francis

The Pakistan Advice and Community Association opened its new premises on Page Hall Road on 30th October. In a wellattended ceremony, around 280 members of the local community met in the centre’s new community space.

They saw the refurbishment works had completely transformed the interior and those who remembered the building in its former guise as the Firth Park Hotel were amazed at the new layout, reminiscing about the building as it was before.

In attendance were Leader of the Council Paul Scriven, who spoke about equality of opportunity for those in the local area, Councillor Steve Jones, who spoke about the past and future of the centre, and the Consul-General of Pakistan, who had travelled from Bradford to attend the opening.

A moving tribute took place to mark the life and work of Fazal Hussain, who had been the centre’s founding member. A plaque in the new building celebrates his achievements for the community.

Centre staff and volunteers were on hand throughout the day to welcome visitors and tell them about the different projects and services on offer. The work at the new centre will consolidate all the existing projects under one roof, as well as build on the successes of Pakistan Advice and Community