Prior to 2009, when the current centre opened its doors, there was a major regeneration of Chalkhill housing estate, including a replacement of 1,280 high rise concrete flats with new houses and low-rise apartment buildings, a supermarket and new open space; improvements were also made to Chalkhill School.
Community and resident groups, Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing, and Brent Council formed a partnership, out of which grew Chalkhill Community Centre.
The centre is housed in the Welford Centre, an architect-designed building constructed by John Laing Partnership. The freehold is held by the London Borough of Brent which leases the property back to Metropolitan to ensure its continued use as a community centre. Metropolitan has granted a sub-lease to Chalkhill Community Centre for 25 years from 2008.
The building also houses a primary care medical centre with GP surgeries, an office for Metropolitan staff managing the Chalkhill estate, and 42 affordable shared ownership flats.
In 2020, Chalkhill Community Centre re-structured its trustee board, staff team and development planning. The charity is building on its direct services to the community as well as maintaining its role in hiring out space. The plan for development includes:
- Increased provision for older people
- Children’s weekend activities
- Information reception point
- Showers project
- Improved kitchen facilities
You can read more about our history by clicking here.
Our Vision: A thriving community where people are safe, connected and engaged.
Our Mission: To provide a welcoming, accessible and sustainable community centre that attracts a diverse population to support, benefit from, and help deliver interesting and beneficial activities and events.
Our Outcomes:
- There is a strong sense of community spirit and cohesion
- People feel included and less isolated, are involved in their communities, and live fulfilling lives
- Diverse cultures are celebrated, shared and accepted
- People, groups and organisations work closely together and feel connected to others