Grant pays for better access

Jul 25 2008 by Jo Henwood, Chester Chronicle

Grant pays for better access

IT’S easier to get a city community centre, thanks to grants.

The QueenŠStreet Christian Centre in Chester now has a covered ramp access to improve facilities for people with disabilities.

The community centre, which is used every day of the week, also has a wider doorway and porch area. The work, costing £5,500, was made possible thanks to £4,180 from Landfill Communities Funds from Waste Recycling Group Ltd, administered by WREN, Chester City Council through a grant from the Local Area Committee and support from within the church.

Michael Hemmerdinger, community coordinator for the centre, said: “Without the assistance of both WREN and Chester City Council it would not have been possible to achieve our aspirations to ensure that the centre is easily accessible by all members of the community.”

Cicely Gabriel, chairman of Chester Cruse Friendship Fellowship Group, which meets fortnightly at the Centre said: “The provision of direct access to the hall via a covered ramp will enable us to provide friendship to people whose mobility is severely challenged.”

Richard Smith, the project manager from WREN, said: “WREN are delighted to be involved in a second project at the centre. The new access will transform the way the community use this very popular building and we hope it continues to thrive.”