Community centre on deprived Chesterfield estate given revamp for free

Umbrellas Cosy Hub opened its doors in January and prides itself on offering a ‘home from home’ for residents who need some time out in the Grangewood estate area.

Organisers Jane and George Bentley took over an underused community building at the centre of the estate, on Burns Close, to provide a childcare base, craft groups, bingo, exercise classes and a quiet spot for a coffee and a chat.

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Now the centre has been given a revamp, worth an estimated £40,419, for free thanks to a scheme run by property maintenance firm Fortem and its management trainees.

Work carried out includes new windows and doors, new handrail and ramp for access, new electric heaters, restoration of damaged brickwork, new fencing and new security lighting.

When the Cosy Hub reopens, visitors will be able to use free Wi-Fi, laptops and an iPad to search for jobs or create a CV.

Jane said: “The new heating system and new better insulated windows and doors will release more of our funds to directly help and support the people, rather than simply paying the electricity bill.

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"The trustees of Umbrellas Cosy Hub, on behalf of the local community, owe a huge debt of gratitude to the small band of trainees from Fortem, who have given over and above of their time, abilities, skills and talents to improving the hub, beyond all our hopes. We will be forever grateful to them.”

Fortem have been working with Chesterfield Borough Council since 2017, most recently completing a £4.4million regeneration of the Grangewood Estate.

Council leader Councillor Tricia Gilby said: “We’re really pleased with the works that have been carried out at Umbrellas Cosy Hub.

"The new facilities will help to make a real difference to the local community and provide them with a home from home where they can access any support that they may need.

“It’s also been great to see how using and engaging with a local supply chain throughout the project can maximise community benefits even further.”

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