Beam Park Stands United to Save Its Much-Loved Community Centre after £9K Rent Increase.
A petition has been launched to help save the much-loved Mardyke Community Centre after members raised concerns over what is believed to be a £9,000 increase in rent. Supporters say the centre is the heart of the Beam Park community and are calling on residents across Havering to back the campaign.
For years, Lesley, John and an incredible team of dedicated volunteers have worked tirelessly to make the Mardyke Community Centre a lifeline for local people.
The centre is far more than just a building. It has become the heart of the Beam Park community, providing a warm hub during the winter with free breakfasts, a cool hub during the summer, along with chat groups, clubs, activities and invaluable support for residents of all ages.
Local residents say there simply are not enough words to thank Lesley, John and their volunteers for everything they do for the local community. Their commitment has transformed the centre into a place where people can find friendship, support and a welcoming face, no matter their circumstances.
Beam Park Councillor Trevor McKeever has thrown his support behind the campaign alongside fellow Councillor Matt Stanron.
He told the Havering Daily:
“Both Councillor Stanton and I fully support the MYCC and this petition. We recognise the vital role the MYCC plays within Beam Park and the wider borough, and the significant social value it delivers to local residents.
“Yesterday, Councillor Stanton and I, along with Margaret Mullane MP, who has also made representations, met with Havering Council officers to discuss this issue. As a result of those discussions, a further meeting is being arranged between officers and the MYCC. We remain hopeful that a positive resolution can be reached.
“In the meantime, we would encourage residents, members and supporters of the MYCC to sign and share this petition. A strong show of community support will help demonstrate just how valued the Centre is and the importance of securing its future for Beam Park and Havering residents.”
Havering Council has also responded to the concerns.
A spokesperson for Havering Council told the Havering Daily:
“We are aware of the situation with tenants at The Mardyke Community Centre.
“The lease expired some years ago and we have offered to renew their lease.
“We are in contact with the tenants and have offered them a number of dates to meet at the premises to discuss the matter in more detail. We are waiting to hear back from them and hope we can find a resolution that suits all concerned.”
Supporters are now hoping the petition will demonstrate just how important the Mardyke Community Centre is to local residents and help secure its future.
For many people in Beam Park, the centre is more than a community building – it is a place of friendship, support and belonging. Campaigners are urging as many people as possible to sign and share the petition in the hope that a positive solution can be found that keeps this much-valued community hub at the heart of Beam Park for many years to come.
Please see the link to the petition below:
Please note: this needs to be printed and handed in to the centre.
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