£170,000 refurbishment of South Oxford Community Centre completed

The work to the community centre’s dojo was funded through a £50,000 grant from WREN (Waste Recycling Environmental) and £120,000 investment from the City Council.

The aim of the project was to create a modern community facility and improve access to the building, particularly for disabled people.

The work has been undertaken by Fergal Contracting Ltd which ensured the complete refurbishment of the dojo, including installation of:

• Two new changing rooms
• A new disabled toilet
• Two new unisex toilets
• Ramps for disabled access
• New doors and windows
• New heating and electrics
• New drainage

The refurbishment also saw the dojo – which is used for martial arts - decorated throughout.  

The project began in mid-September and was completed in January 2018.

The official opening of the Annexe and the naming of the Gill Garratt room will be taking place Wednesday 7 March 2018 at 6.30pm-7.30pm.

Oxford City Council is committed to improving community facilities as part of its efforts to build stronger communities across the city.

The City Council opened the £4m Rose Hill Community Centre last year; is soon to complete a £4.5m refurbishment of Oxford’s sports pavilions; and work on a £500,000 revamp of Bullingdon Community Centre.

In the coming years, the City Council is planning multi-million pound investments in East Oxford Community Centre, Blackbird Leys Community Centre and Barton Neighbourhood Centre.

Councillor Bob Price, Ward Member for Hinksey Park, said: “The old Waterworks Building is an iconic part of South Oxford, and this modernisation project has created two really excellent new spaces that will further increase the use of the Centre by groups of all kinds, and in particular, by the martial arts and dance communities.”

Councillor Marie Tidball, Ward Member for Hinksey Park, said: “'This fabulous refurbishment is testament to the hard work and dedication of Association members who helped to secure the grant. I'm delighted that local residents and members of the public will benefit from the improved accessibility, which will ensure they benefit from the vibrant activities taking place at the community centre”