Carwood's community centre open at last

Story & photo: Lisa Swift

After three years of delays, Carwood’s Community Centre finally opened its doors again for residents to use.

To celebrate, on 17th December, Carwood TARA invited residents to a Christmas get-together, with tea brewed in the new kitchen, cakes, biscuits and other treats. With a Christmas tree brightly lit in the corner and snow falling outside, the new paintwork and friendly chatter brought a warm cosy feeling to everyone present.

It’s not been easy though. Wynn March, treasurer for the TARA, said she had come to the end of her tether after 3 years of complaining. She bravely stood up at the Community Assembly meeting and said her piece. The result was new carpet, paintwork, kitchen, toilet and ceiling – and three months later an open centre.

Local resident, Mustaq, who had used the centre in the past for classes for local women, said, “It looks lovely, we’ve worked really hard to get it back. It’s nice now and people will be able to use it.” Mustaq hopes that language classes can start in the centre soon.

The TARA members wished to thank Tim, Amanda and Cheryl from Sheffield Homes for their support and for help with a grant from ‘Your Community Your Choice’ which helped pay for the carpet and lino. The TARA hope Sheffield Homes will keep on their toes though as there are one or two problems still to solve, like a broken tap and electric sockets!

If you are on the Carwood estate and are interested in using the centre or starting a group, contact Wynn on 243 0766, or Gwen on 243 3192.

Carwood TARA General meeting

Tuesday 2nd March, 6pm, Carwood Community Centre

Let’s be proud to live on Carwood Estate. We need your help, come and lend a voice and let’s work together!

Future plans including a coffee morning and hanging baskets. This year’s pantomime trip was enjoyed by 40 residents, including 28 children from the estate. There will be more trips during the year.