Summerhill Centre, St. George

Developing day services

For some time Bristol Charities had been trying to acquire an extended lease in respect of the Summerhill Club, Summerhill Road, St. George, Bristol. Bristol City Council, which owns the building, had agreed to a four year lease in 2006; this being the maximum period which they were prepared to offer. A range of activities had been held at the Summerhill Club over the last four years and efforts were made to demonstrate the value to the users and the local community if a long lease were offered. There are currently over 100 active members of the club and it is anticipated that this number will increase now that the future has been secured and once the works have completed. The average age of the club members is 75 years of age.

A long lease would allow the Trustees to invest in the fabric of the building thereby ensuring that the club could offer a wider range of activities and meals to an increasing number of users.

After extensive and prolonged lobbying the Cabinet of the City Council agreed to provide a 21 year lease at a peppercorn rent. The terms of the lease were agreed in July 2010 and refurbishment works amounting to almost £200,000 will commence in late September 2010.Bristol Charities has worked closely with the 100 plus members who currently view the building as vital part of their lives. Once the refurbished building is completed it will allow additional activities and the provision of midday meals.