Community Hub Updates

Welcome to our Community Hub Updates page! Here, you’ll find the latest progress and developments at the YMCO hub. From renovation milestones to community involvement and future plans, this space is dedicated to keeping you informed and engaged with the transformation of our community center. Your support and feedback are invaluable as we continue to create a versatile and welcoming space for everyone. Stay tuned for more updates as we work together to enhance our community hub.

Quoting Phase and Funding Search for Community Centre Renovations

November 20, 2023

We are currently in the quoting phase for further comprehensive works to the community centre - we're also seeking funding support via grant proposals to support the renovations of the YMCO hub. 🏗️ Your ongoing support means alot!

Chimney Breast Removal Complete; Contractor Search Underway

September 8, 2023

Just removed the chimney breast and patched up the hole! ⚒️ Renovations still underway! Currently gathering quotes from 2 contractors, and on the lookout for 2 more reliable options.

Expanding Upstairs Space for Enhanced Versatility

July 17, 2023

We plan to take out this chimney breast and create a bigger upstairs space. It's going to open up so many options! We'll have more room to work with, making it super versatile. Imagine having classes, workshops & clubs all happening in one fantastic space. The possibilities are truly endless!

Appeal Success: Change of Use Granted for Community Centre

June 15, 2023

🎉 Delighted to share that our appeal for change of use to a community centre has been granted!! Alhamdulilah! 👏 Huge thanks for the Welsh Government's decision to overturn Newport City Councils initial stance. 🙌🏾 We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support, comments & responses during the consultations. Looking ahead with optimism - we will keep you informed about our progress.

Strong Community Response and Ongoing Renovations

April 25, 2023

📌 March saw 2 requests for comments for PEDW appeal process with 80+ responses! THANK YOU 👏 👏 the deadline for this was early April - with appeal process still ongoing! 🧱 In the meantime, internal walls are coming down & ceilings are being worked on - look out for more planned renovations!👷‍♂️🔨 With building work going on - it isnt so glamorous but we will keep you updated!

Call for Community Support in Planning Appeal

March 14, 2023

YMCO is urging community members to submit their supportive comments for our planning appeal. If you have received a letter regarding this matter, please respond by emailing your comments before the deadline on March 16th. This is a crucial opportunity to make our voices heard and positively impact the appeal process. Your support can make a significant difference.

Roof Repairs Completed and Ongoing Renovations

February 6, 2023

✔️ Roof repairs completed 📌 Further renovation plans to be carried out • Still awaiting an update regarding the appeal we have submitted for change of use

Appeal Submission and Initial Works on Community Centre

November 24, 2022

After discussing our case with a Chartered Town Planner we've lodged an appeal with the Welsh Government as we believe the NCC planning office has made the wrong decision to reject our proposal for a D1 community centre on parking grounds. We have two independent professional reports showing the current use of the building which is A1, has a much higher parking demand requirement vs a D1 community centre. We also intend to raise some concerns with NCC as to how a simple change of use application took many many months longer than guidance indicates and how our amended application got 'lost' once submitted. The appeal was registered beginning of October and unfortunately due to a backlog we have been advised it will take 20 weeks before they start making progress on it. We are expecting this process to take 12 months in the mid case but pray it is sooner. In the meantime we intend to start works on the building so we may utilise the space under A1 use until a favourable decision is made at appeal.

Planning Application Rejection and Appeal Strategy

June 28, 2022

YMCO submitted a revised planning application in December which unfortunately got rejected on parking concerns for the centre. We will be discussing with a Chartered Town Planner and will appeal the decision by Newport City Council.