Introduction to the Exciting Community Centre Project
In the charming village of Blofield, located just 8km east of Norwich, a new community centre is set to become a vibrant hub for local residents. The winning team for this project will be responsible for advancing the existing plans from RIBA Stages 3-to-6, transforming a site on Plantation Road into a thriving community space. With a planned completion date of 2027, this project aims to address the growing demand for community facilities in the area, driven by significant population growth and increased pressure on existing resources. The new community centre will be situated near a brand-new primary school and doctor’s surgery, making it a central and easily accessible location for villagers.
Understanding the Community’s Needs
The village of Blofield, with its rich history of brick and tile manufacturing, has undergone significant changes over the years. Today, it is home to around 4,000 inhabitants who are eager for a community hub that meets their needs. Following extensive community consultation, the Blofield Parish Council has identified the need for a new community centre that will provide a range of facilities and services. The centre will feature a village hall, storeroom, plant room, lobby, toilets, kitchen, café, office, outdoor play area, outdoor gym, and a 57-capacity car park. Additionally, a preschool will be created by repurposing an existing classroom on the site, providing a valuable resource for local families. The Parish Council is now seeking tenders to develop and manage the project, working closely with the selected team to bring this vision to life.
The Project’s Significance and Ambitions
The new community centre is a vital project for the village of Blofield, as it will provide a much-needed space for community activities, events, and services. The facility will be designed to meet the increasing demand for community facilities, driven by the village’s growing population. The centre will offer a range of amenities, including a village hall, which will be perfect for hosting community events, meetings, and celebrations. The outdoor play area and gym will provide opportunities for residents to stay active and healthy, while the café will offer a welcoming space for socializing and relaxation. The preschool will provide a safe and nurturing environment for young children to learn and grow. The project’s ambition is to create a vibrant and inclusive community hub that will become the heart of village life.
The Site and Its Potential
The site for the new community centre is currently occupied by a former playing field and classroom, a play area and playground, and a small car park. Located on the northern fringes of the village, the site is bordered by the A47 to the north and is centrally located, directly opposite the new primary school and doctor’s surgery. The site’s proximity to the school and surgery makes it an ideal location for a community centre, as it will be easily accessible for residents of all ages. The project will involve transforming this site into a thriving community space, with a range of facilities and amenities that will meet the needs of local residents. The Parish Council is excited to see the site come alive with activity, as the new community centre becomes a hub of community life.
The Selection Process and Requirements
The Parish Council is now seeking tenders from qualified teams to develop and manage the project from RIBA Stages 3-to-6. The selection process will be based on a combination of quality and price, with bids evaluated 75 per cent on quality and 25 per cent on price. Applicants must hold professional indemnity insurance of £2 million, demonstrating their ability to manage and deliver the project to a high standard. The Parish Council is looking for a team that can work closely with them to bring the community centre to life, ensuring that the final product meets the needs and expectations of the community. The successful team will be responsible for advancing the existing plans, managing the construction process, and ensuring that the project is completed on time and within budget.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
The new community centre in Blofield is an exciting project that has the potential to transform the village and improve the lives of its residents. With its range of facilities and amenities, the centre will become a vibrant hub of community life, providing a space for residents to come together, socialize, and access important services. The project is a testament to the Parish Council’s commitment to meeting the needs of the community, and their vision for a thriving and inclusive village. As the project moves forward, the Parish Council is eager to work with the selected team to bring this vision to life, creating a community centre that will be a source of pride and joy for the village of Blofield. With a planned completion date of 2027, the community centre is set to become a flagship project for the village, showcasing the power of community-led initiatives and the importance of investing in community facilities.
