Council takes over at Great Yarmouth community centre

For over two decades, The Peggotty Road Community Centre has been a lifeline for many people and groups.

Following news that the committee members of the South Yarmouth Community Association - who have helped the centre thrive for more than 20 years - have decided to retire, the council is temporarily being caretakers of the centre as officers look at ways to keep the centre at the heart of community life.

In 2022, part of the community centre was opened as the community supermarket, Sally's Store. Picture - GYBC (Image: GYBC)The council said existing user groups will not be affected, and no one will be asked to change existing bookings or increase their payments.

Early next year, the council plans to host an open day for groups and people to share their memories of the centre and its activities in a bid to encourage people to help shape the centre's future. 

New permanent tenants will then be sought to deliver a range of new activities, as well as continuing existing provisions.

Councillor Emma Flaxman-Taylor. Picture - Sonya Duncan (Image: Sonya Duncan)Portfolio holder for housing, health and communities at Great Yarmouth Borough Council, Emma Flaxman-Taylor, said: ‘’Hundreds of people have attended fantastic activities at the centre over the years and may never have met Terry, Val and Bob or many of the previous committee members, but it is their hard work and commitment which has kept the centre open.

‘’I would like to thank the outgoing committee and very much hope we can do their legacy justice as Peggotty Road Community Centre looks forward to an exciting future with plenty of activities, parties and community fun.’’

Last year, the community centre became home to a community supermarket - Sally's Store - which aimed to help people living in food poverty.

If you would like to be involved in the next steps for Peggotty Road Community Centre, email gycc@great-yarmouth.gov.uk or call Dean Wilson on 07795 090798.