St. Joseph's community centre has been standing empty for a long time. It used to be the heart of the community, with many people enjoying use of it. The building is sound but neglected.  

The owners applied for planning permission to demolish the building and build a new development.  The planning application was rejected and on appeal the owners were told that there is nothing structurally wrong with the building although they deliberately misinformed the community and told local people that it was structurally unsafe. Since then, it has lain empty and no maintenance is being carried out. 

It seems as if the owners are waiting for the condition of the property to deteriorate before resubmitting their planning application.  It would not be so bad if the plan was for new, affordable housing for local people but this will not happen. We are looking at the spread of high-rental and privately owned properties in the area - and local people increasingly being priced out. 

We want to bring back use of this community centre for people who live in the area and have started renovation and repairs.  But last week we were served eviction papers on behalf of the owners. Please help us to resist eviction and persuade the owners that they have a responsibility to the community they used to serve. 

Please sign and publicise this petition and offer whatever help you can to [email protected]