Floor-less work helps Phoenix rise

Published by Richard Lord for Wakefield & District Housing in Housing and also in Communities, Education, Health

A 19^th century building in Wakefield that now acts as a community centre, thanks to the work of some determined committee members, has secured equipment to help maintain its original charm – with a little help from Wakefield and District Housing (WDH).

The Phoenix Centre on Batley Road, Alverthorpe, received a £771 community grant from WDH to invest in a floor buffer and vacuum cleaner, which will help restore the traditional floor and keep it clean for its youth club’s classes.

Marie Smith, director of the Phoenix Centre, said: “As the centre has become more and more popular it’s become very important that we keep it clean and to a high standard in accordance with health and safety.

“When we received the funding from WDH we were really pleased because we want to maintain the old features of the building. Some of the flooring is the original from when it was built in the 1870s.

“We used to just sweep the floor and give it a mop every now and again, but it was time consuming and it didn’t do the job to the standard we wanted. Now we can get it back to its original condition.”

The centre has gone from strength to strength since it opened in 2009 and currently provides a play group for 2-4-year olds and more recently established a youth club after canvassing opinion of local residents asking them what the centre could do for them.

Rachel Willoughby, WDH Area Manager, said the centre has done some sterling work in the community and continues to offer local people services they want.

She said: “Our Local Management Committee recognised the effort and commitment the Phoenix Centre has given to local residents and was more than happy to help by providing the funds for them to buy the necessary equipment.

“WDH supports local groups wherever possible. We feel strongly about establishing old fashioned community spirit and the Phoenix Centre has worked hard to provide people with a place that encourages social engagement and healthy lifestyles.”