A new modern community centre and a children’s play area in the heart of the Golden Lane Estate officially opened at the weekend.

The two facilities underwent year-long renovation works by the City of London Corporation to modernise and make them more accessible to the community.

The centre boasts a large hall, kitchen, classroom and three multi-purpose spaces which will be used for community events.

The children’s play area, which is a world away from the original design, was designed in consultation with residents living on the estate and includes easy access for wheelchair and prams, a slide and large climbing frame and seating area for parents and carers.

The day’s celebrations kicked off at 11am on Saturday with a ribbon cutting ceremony with Sherriff Timothy Hailes followed by taster workshops in cooking, yoga, barn dancing, singing, kids activities and many performances including an opera finale.

Randall Anderson, Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Community and Children’s Services Committee, said:

“The day was a double celebration for residents living in the Golden Lane Estate.

“A lot of hard work and effort by residents and staff has gone into refurbishing the community centre and the children’s play area, which sits at the heart of the estate.

“This has now turned into a fantastic space for the whole community to enjoy and make the most of. I hope people on the estate will be able to enjoy the two new spaces for many years to come.”

The day’s celebration was rounded off with a lunch served in the hall, giving people the opportunity to meet with their neighbours and fellow residents of the estate.

Notes to editors

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk