Following the devastation caused by an arson attack, Forest Community Centre in Melksham has become a symbol of resilience and community spirit. Thanks to overwhelming support from local partners and residents, the centre is now on a path to recovery, with new safety measures and renewed energy for community engagement.
Together with Anglian Building Products, Selwood Housing, through its stronger communities fund, awarded financial support to aid the centre’s recovery. This included funding for the removal of an old BBQ shelter and a contribution towards the installation of CCTV, an essential step in restoring safety and confidence.
In September, Billy Lowe, social value lead at Anglian Building Products, and Angie Blackford, customer involvement and communities facilitator at Selwood Housing, visited the centre to witness the transformation first-hand. A spokesperson for Anglian Building Products said:
“What a fantastic outcome! Last year we donated funds to our client Selwood Housing which they invested in Forest Community Centre in Wiltshire, which had sadly been damaged by fire.
Our donation helped to fund a brand-new CCTV system to ensure that no further criminal damage could happen, so the community can enjoy clubs like bingo, football, parties and weddings, and also benefit from a foodbank, supporting hundreds of people from the Melksham area every week.
We’re so pleased to see this space has been brought back to life!”
Angie Blackford, customer involvement and communities facilitator at Selwood Housing, agreed:
“It was clear to see just how vital the centre is to the local community. We were delighted that Anglian Windows shared our commitment, and together we were able to support the installation of a CCTV system to help improve safety.”
Sara Phelps, secretary and treasurer at Forest Community Centre, shared her appreciation for the support, noting how the improvements have helped rebuild a safe and inviting outdoor space for residents. The centre has since resumed activities, reinforcing its role as a vital community hub.
