Wildlife centre future set to be secured
The long-term future of a wildlife and outdoor pursuit centre is set to be secured with the transfer of the site to the charity which runs it.
Wildside Activity Centre in Hordern Road, Whitmore Reans, Wolverhampton, provides outdoor activities including canoeing, cycling and narrowboat trips for all ages and abilities.
It was set up by Wolverhampton council but has been self-funded since May 2014.
A ‘community asset transfer’ of the premises, including a 35-year lease, has now been agreed from the council to the organisers.
Councillor Peter Bilson, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Assets and Housing, said: “Wildside Activity Centre provides a tremendous service to the community and is run by a very dedicated team of volunteers.
“We have worked closely with the centre’s leadership team to enable this Community Asset Transfer to take place.
“The business case they have put forward means the long-term future of the centre is secure and will serve the local community to the full.
“The official agreement must now be signed by both parties – and I am looking forward to seeing the centre build on its popularity over the coming years.”
A registered charity, The Wildside Activity Centre is committed to investing £75,000 worth of volunteer hours to provide activities and improve the facilities on a not-for-profit basis.
It is looking to further develop its extensive programme, which includes canoeing, cycling, narrowboat trips, conservation projects, nature and adventure activities.
This will be achieved through sessions for schools, youth groups, uniformed and voluntary organisations, and disability groups, as well as family-orientated holiday programmes.
Bosses say public open days showcasing its work, and events on key dates such as Mother’s Day, will continue to broaden the appeal of the centre.
The hire of the meeting room, with a small kitchen, wi-fi and data projection facilities, is also in place to bring in revenue.
There are also opportunities for unemployed residents to volunteer at the centre.
Len Kruczek, Wildside Activity Centre chair of the board, said: “This is a huge landmark for us and we are extremely grateful for the council’s support on this transfer of the centre to the charity.
“We serve all ages and all abilities and get people reconnected with nature.
“We have a wonderful, newly decorated meeting room with canal views available for hire, an extensive range of activities, brilliant boat trips and exciting holiday programmes.
“We are completely committed to the hard work ahead of keeping the centre going to serve the local community.”
