Cafe Afrika closed down, Star FM moved out and Dawe Media Ltd took advantage of a break clause in their lease. So it is now empty apart from the groups using the gym. Ownership has now reverted to the County Council. The County Council have stated firm intentions to sign a 125 year lease to Citylife on 23rd of December. Citylife want to knock down the building and build a social enterprise incubator.
Their original plans were seen to be too large, so they are now back at the drawing board, and it now looks likely that their plans won't go ahead for at least a year. We have been in touch about using the building, but they seem to be talking about taking the highest offer they can get - and it tends to be commercial ventures that can pay the most.
This building was built for the community!
Our vision is to have a vibrant community using the building. We may not be able to be the highest bidder. But the County Council controls the building and the council is there to serve us. So maybe we can persuade the council to give Citylife cheaper lease so that Citylife can afford to let the community use the building while they spend a year or so sorting out their plans. Or maybe the council will let the community use the building long term.
You are part of the community - what do you think should happen to the building?
More information and contact details:
http://www.socialcentres.org/cambridge/