DEMAND for space in a new community hub has “exceeded all expectation” says the chief executive of Stratford Town Trust ahead of its official opening next week.
Plans for Foundation House – a new facility bringing the community together under one roof – were unveiled by the trust at its AGM in the summer.
As well as rooms available for hire, the trust will also be able to grant space at Foundation House to local charities and groups.
Organisations were asked to register interest for space at the hub, based in an industrial unit on Masons Road.
The demand was overwhelming with more than 45 groups to date expressing interest.
Work has been undertaken to refurbish the building, and seven local organisations have to date been granted dedicated space within Foundation House.
Trust chief executive Justin Williams said: “The demand for Foundation House exceeded all expectation.
“We have been overwhelmed by the number of diverse groups approaching us for space – and wanting to work together with other organisations to create a real hub.
“That’s exactly what Foundation House is about – groups working together to benefit each other and the wider community as a result. We look forward to all of our partners now moving in and getting a new and exciting chapter started here, and to welcoming more groups in the future too.”
Second Thoughts Drama Group was the first to start moving in, earlier this month. In return for the new space, the group agreed to move its existing storage container to the hub so it can be used by other tenants.
Ian McLean, chairman of Second Thoughts, said: “Foundation House is a brilliant facility which will bring together a lot of diverse groups from across the community. We can hardly wait to see it fully operational.”
Foundation House offers both large and small spaces over two floors, with disabled access and 40 parking spaces.
As well as the space being granted by the trust, spaces can also be let, with hot desking facilities and four meeting rooms/event spaces also available for hire and community use.
A hub manager – Frankie Williams – has also been appointed.
The official opening takes place on Friday November 24.
Visit www.foundationhouse.co.uk for further details.
