THE vision of a group of community activists for a shared space for all of Saddleworth is coming together.
In partnership with Oldham Council, Saddleworth Sports Youth and Community Association (SSYCA) has been managing the Satellite Centre in Greenfield since it reopened last September.
And the charitable trust’s one year licence to manage activities there has recently been renewed.
Over the summer, alterations have been completed to open out the foyer, creating separate access to the kitchen and toilet without disturbing room space downstairs.
The building has also been redecorated, with new carpeting and furnishing installed.
None of these things would have been possible without the fulsome support of Saddleworth & Lees District Partnership.
Trustees are also more than grateful for the services of local builders Emanuel Whittaker Ltd who made SSYCA their 2016 Charity of the Year.
Later in October, Oldham Council Leader Jean Stretton will be visiting the building to meet young people and trustees.
“We intend to hold an Open Day sometime in the autumn,” said SSYCA Chair, Mike Rooke, “to giving local residents an opportunity to see our facilities firsthand.”
In the meantime, people are very welcome to pop in and see what progress is being made.
A café run by Youth Local (YoLo) volunteers is held every Saturday morning at the centre from 10am to 1pm.
“It is our long term aim to run the building on a 25-year lease, giving us more security of tenure,” revealed SSYCA Hon Secretary, Graham Griffiths.
“We’re really happy with the way things are progressing, backed up by a supportive relationship with Oldham Council.”
The Satellite also serves as a focal hub for a range of community groups and activities.
“We’ve been really staggered by how the demand to use our facilities has grown,” said Cathy Jackson, Treasurer and Bookings Officer.
“We’re almost fully booked on some days, with over 70 per cent occupancy of available hours throughout the week, which is not bad going after just one year.”
For enquiries about booking the Satellite Centre call Cathy Jackson on 07734 384163 or emai: cathy.jackson1@outlook.com or go online: www.satellitecentre.org.uk
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