Act One Community Ownership and Transformation Project: Bedworth Civic Hall and Community Hub
Overview
Bedworth Civic Hall CIO has launched the ACT ONE Community Ownership and Transformation Project to revitalise the Bedworth Civic Hall and establish it as a central hub for community engagement, arts, and economic development. Located in one of the top 10% most deprived areas in the UK, the Civic Hall has faced challenges including neglect, boiler issues, and asbestos, leading to its closure in 2022 after serving as a vaccination centre during the pandemic. This project aims to renew, reopen, and transform the Civic Hall into a thriving community venue.
Project Objectives
Project Objectives:
- Community Engagement and Access to the Arts:
- Provide activities for all ages and backgrounds.
- Promote the arts through local performances, theatre productions, and educational programs.
- Renewal and Commercialisation:
- Renovate the Civic Hall to meet modern standards and needs.
- Develop commercial opportunities to ensure financial sustainability.
- Community Capacity Building:
- Foster talent and support town centre regeneration.
- Engage community members in volunteering and decision-making processes.
- Sustainability:
- Achieve net-zero environmental impact.
- Ensure long-term financial sustainability through diverse revenue streams.
- Empowerment and Opportunities:
- Provide educational, entrepreneurial, and employment opportunities.
- Support local businesses and economic development through coworking spaces and incubation programs.
Key Features and Services:
- Entertainment and Cultural Events:
- Host live music, comedy shows, and community theatre.
- Provide space for dance schools, stage schools, and youth theatre.
- Community Hub Services:
- Create a one-stop model for statutory and non-statutory services under one roof.
- Offer warm hubs, food banks, and health and social welfare support.
- Economic Development:
- Develop coworking spaces and small-scale business incubators.
- Offer flexible workspace solutions and support for SMEs.
- Educational Opportunities:
- Partner with local schools, colleges, and universities to offer educational programs.
- Host science demonstrations, heritage events, and arts workshops.
- Social and Health Benefits:
- Improve community health through physical activities, arts programs, and social services.
- Provide warm spaces, food bank access, and financial support services.
Community Activities and Events:
- Regular Weekly Events:
- Parents coffee club to foster community and increase footfall.
- Fitness and wellbeing classes in partnership with local gyms.
- Special Events and Festivals:
- Winter indoor food festival, holiday play-schemes, and a community folk festival.
- Educational events like science week and workshops in partnership with local education facilities.
- Innovative Programs:
- Host mobile bike repairs, heritage walking trails, and esports events.
- Develop a data centre in partnership with DeepGreen to support green innovation.
Future Plans and Partnerships:
- Engage with the Coventry 10-year arts strategy and NBBC arts strategy.
- Collaborate with institutions like the University of Warwick and Coventry University.
- Implement community outreach programs with organisations like the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal Opera House.
Economic and Social Impact:
The ACT ONE project aims to address the socio-economic challenges of Bedworth by increasing footfall, improving entertainment and dining options, and enhancing the night-time economy. By revitalising the Civic Hall, the project will provide a vibrant, sustainable venue that supports community cohesion, economic development, and cultural enrichment.
Conclusion:
The ACT ONE Community Ownership and Transformation Project represents a bold initiative to rejuvenate Bedworth Civic Hall, ensuring it remains a vital part of the community. Through diverse programs, services, and partnerships, the project seeks to create a sustainable, inclusive, and dynamic space that fosters community growth, cultural engagement, and economic prosperity.