Plans to redevelop and modernise Blakenall Community Centre have been confirmed following the successful securing of funding from the Towns Deal, New Horizons and local reserves.
The investment will support a major upgrade of the centre, which has been a long-standing part of the local community since it was first built in the 1980s. The redevelopment aims to transform the site into a modern, accessible and flexible space that better meets the needs of residents.
Blakenall Community Centre is operated by Bloxwich Community Partnership, a local charity with more than 45 years of experience supporting communities across Walsall. Originally established in 1977 as the T P Riley Community Association, the organisation now delivers a range of services across multiple sites, including youth provision, holiday activities, alternative education and affordable play opportunities for children.
While the centre remains well used, its current layout and facilities are no longer suited to modern expectations. The redevelopment will address this by creating improved spaces designed to support community engagement, wellbeing services and a broader range of activities.
Planned improvements include a new, more welcoming entrance area, upgraded interiors and modernised rooms that can be used for community programmes and services. Dedicated areas will also be created for children’s play, youth activities and a charity shop, alongside enhanced accessibility features to ensure the building can be used by as many people as possible.
The project is intended to strengthen the role of the centre within the community, providing a space that supports health and wellbeing, digital inclusion and skills development. Training opportunities and volunteering initiatives are also expected to form part of the offer once the redevelopment is complete.
Eleanor Boycott, Chief Executive Officer of Bloxwich Community Partnership and New Horizons Community Enterprise, said:
“ We are delighted to have secured funding from the Towns Deal, New Horizons, and our own reserves to redevelop the Blakenall Centre. This investment sends a powerful message to our community—especially our children and young people—that they deserve high quality, vibrant spaces.
“After many years of hard work, all the pieces have finally come together, and we are excited to create a safe, modern centre with dedicated youth areas and a new children’s soft play facility. We look forward to welcoming everyone through the doors of a place designed for our community to thrive. “
Councillor Adrian Andrew, Deputy Leader of Walsall Council, added:
“ This investment in Blakenall Community Centre is about much more than improving a building – it’s about investing in people and place. Community centres like this sit at the heart of our neighbourhoods, providing vital support for families, children and young people, and helping people stay connected, healthy and supported.
“By modernising and future-proofing the centre, we’re making sure local residents have access to high-quality, welcoming facilities that meet today’s needs and continue to serve the community for many years to come. It sends a clear message that Blakenall matters and that we are committed to supporting our communities to thrive. “
The redevelopment marks a significant step in strengthening community infrastructure in the area, with the aim of ensuring the centre remains a key local resource for years to come.