A new community centre has been opened following the regeneration of a thriving Reading neighbourhood.

‘Dee Space’, nestled in the heart of Dee Park will offer local people a new hall, children’s centre and spaces for clubs and community events.

The space was launched in collaboration with Housing Association Peabody and Reading Borough Council with a huge community event.

Reading’s Deputy Mayor, Glenn Dennis joined around 300 residents on the day to enjoy a raft of fun activities, including a steel band, children’s entertainer and a balloonist.

Dee Park resident Naudia Nelson explained how this new community space is “long awaited” which will benefit everyone in the local community.

She said: “I really enjoyed the day, and it was wonderful to see the community come together and celebrate.”  

The name, ‘Dee Space’ was chosen by the Dee Park residents who were given a choice of three names, all of which were suggested by local people within the community.

Various groups have already started to use Dee Space. Grassrootz, a local youth group, are set to start sessions on Thursday evenings, which will include arts and crafts, sports and games, a mentoring programme and daytrips. 

 Sahil Khan, Director of Community Strategy, Partnerships and Funding at Peabody, said: “Its excellent to see the much-anticipated Dee Space now being used by local people - bringing everyone together for events, projects and celebrations.

“We’re looking forward to seeing how it will further strengthen the brilliant sense of community in the area.” 

Ellie Emberson, Lead Councillor for Housing at Reading Borough Council, said: “We’re really pleased to see the new Dee Space facility opened in partnership between Reading Borough Council and Peabody.

 

“To have such a good turnout of residents for the opening shows the enthusiasm locally for such a great space. As a Council we’ve always recognised that such centres are a key to help communities come together, with this facility complementing twelve council-owned and operated community centres around the borough.

 

“The Dee Park regeneration project has made a big difference to residents locally and we continue to work with Peabody to deliver more affordable homes for our residents.”