A new operator is set to provide services at the Briardale Community Centre in Blyth.

 

Following a competitive selection process,  Hadston House Youth and Community Projects has been selected to run services from the centre in the future.

 

The charity which previously ran the centre became insolvent and a liquidator appointed. 

 

The county council was keen to see this much loved community asset continue to operate, and advertised for a new provider.

 

Hadston House Youth and Community Projects was one of five prospective operators who applied, and it currently runs a very successful community centre in Hadston.

 

An evaluation panel, which included a representative from Blyth Town Council as well as officers from the county council, was impressed with the high quality of applications received. 

 

The panel said that Hadston House application stood out for its genuine emphasis on the community of Blyth, its focus on inclusiveness for all who will use the centre’s services, and its plans to engage with users of the centre to learn more about the services that the community really wants and needs. 

 

Cllr Peter Jackson, leader of Northumberland County Council said: “I am extremely pleased that we are able to announce a new operator for the Briardale Centre, who we hope will take it forward on a firm footing - for the benefit of the local community.  We wish the new operator every success in this exciting new venture.”

 

Candice Randall, executive director of Hadston House Youth and Community Projects, added:  “We are delighted with the opportunity to work with the Briardale Centre and the Blyth Community.  As long-standing providers of services to the community we are excited about the potential for the Briardale Centre, particularly given its long history in Blyth.”

 

The county council will now work with Hadston House during the coming weeks to ensure a smooth transition and handover.

 

The Briardale Community Centre in Blyth has been a successful community building offering a variety of services and support to the local community of Cowpen and Kitty Brewster over the past 20 years. It is a valued site and has the potential to be a vibrant hub within the heart of Blyth.