New Rainbow Community Centre for Sydenham, Leamington Spa

Plans for a colourful new multi-ethnic community centre in Sydenham were given the go-ahead early in 2001.

The new centre is on the site of the former Sydenham First School. It is intended as a magnet for all sections of the local community - ethnic minorities and the young and old.

Facilities include a central mall with cafe, an education area, sports hall, social services, community hall and designated ethnic minority and youth centres.

The process started with an extensive consultation exercise which identified a social need in Sydenham. Acanthus Clews were then asked by Sydenham Neighbourhood Initiatives to design a building suitable for the whole community.

The result is an innovative solution which is highly cost-effective both to build and to run. Widespread use of natural daylight and thermally-efficient materials will keep energy costs down.

Commenting on the plans, Rev Morris Rodham, Chair of Trustees, said: “The planning committee not only approved the application, with all party support, but apparently were also very complimentary about the whole project.”

The project was also notable for a record Lottery Grant which contributed around two thirds of the cost.

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