Originally established in 1977 by local residents who reclaimed an empty building to provide space for community activity, the Centre has played a significant role in local life for over four decades.  

The building was redesigned in 2008 by jmarchitects to improve accessibility and flexibility, and despite its closure in March 2021 due to funding challenges, the Centre reopened in November 2023 with support from Bluevale Community Club (BCC).

BCC has since continued to deliver services from the Centre and was an active participant in the stakeholder consultation process, which informed the recently completed Options Appraisal.  

Its involvement, along with that of other local organisations, shaped the recommendation to lease the Centre to a suitably qualified third-sector organisation capable of ensuring its long-term sustainability.

RHA and BCC are now working constructively to ensure continuity for existing users of the Centre, including those with regular room bookings, throughout this transition period.

Julie Smillie, interim director of Reidvale Housing Association, said: “The Reidvale Neighbourhood Centre is a cornerstone of our community. Our priority is to secure a sustainable and impactful future for the Centre that puts local people first. This Expression of Interest process is an important step in our transformation as an organisation. We are seeking a partner who shares our values and can bring the skills, vision, and commitment to develop the Centre into a thriving, inclusive hub for the whole community.”

The EOI process will remain open for six weeks, closing at 12 noon on Tuesday, 27th May 2025.

Facilities on Offer:

• A large function hall with bar
• A community café and commercial kitchen
• Meeting rooms and flexible activity spaces
• On-site office accommodation and accessible facilities

Applicants Should Demonstrate:

• Financial sustainability without ongoing RHA subsidy
• A track record in delivering inclusive, community-led services
• Strong governance, staffing, and operational capacity
• A vision aligned with RHA’s commitment to regeneration and social impact

This is a significant opportunity for a values-driven organisation to grow its local presence, strengthen partnerships, and develop new social enterprise models within a well-established community setting.