BedsRCC are thrilled to announce the launch of Dunstable Community Halls, which has come about through a merger with Luton and Bedfordshire Youth Association (LuBYA).
Extensive refurbishment of the Pioneer Hall and grounds (Previously Pioneer Boyās Club) has transformed the Halls and what used to be a wasteland into our new community growing space ā Lilyās Garden.
The merger of the two charities in 2022 permitted considerable renovation of the Pioneer Hall, assisted with funding from Central Beds Council (Community Asset Grant) and extensive works by Willmott Dixon. BedsRCC also plan to refurbish the sports hall and other renovation work is planned for the Dunstable Young Peopleās Club building.
BedsRCC will continue to and extend the legacy of LuBYA by:
- Providing a space for the local community to use through our Warm Space/ Wellbeing CafƩ
- Providing hireable space for the local community to use at an affordable price in a safe environment. Groups such as Mind, University of the 3rd Age, National Diabetes Prevention Programme, NHS, Gateway, Churches, Multiply and Workerās Education Association already make use of the space and support local people.
- As well as providing lettable space, several Beds RCC projects are also based in the building. These projects offer support in areas such as mental health and wellbeing, IT support for digitally excluded groups and Dunstable Cultural Consortium. There are a range of health, wellbeing, educational and cultural activities available at the halls including Pilates, Zumba, dance and musical theatre classes.
- BedsRCC are looking to extend their social prescribing offer to include activities for young people (16-24), such as music, art and exercise.
- The halls are centrally located and easily accessible on foot or by public transport, just off High St North. The buildings are staffed during the week.
To view the halls or enquire about bookings or activities:
(01582 660144)
Lilyās Garden
Since taking over Dunstable Community Halls last year, charity BedsRCC has been busy renovating the space surrounding the halls. Where there was once a scrub filled dumping ground, there is now a welcoming and vibrant garden available for the enjoyment of the community. After the opening, the garden will be open to the public on Mondays and Thursday throughout the autumn and winter months.
The garden features wheelchair-friendly and raised beds, a water feature, a wildlife feeding station, colourful seating, a striking mural and a mixture of flowers and vegetables.
The garden could not have been built without the energies and efforts of local people who attend the halls on a regular basis. From this spring our groups that meet on Thursdays and Mondays have helped to create the garden and make it grow. Helping with everything from shifting compost and painting a colourful mural to tending the plants.
Friends of Dunstable Community Halls & Garden group
To support our activities in Dunstable we are setting up a Friends of Dunstable Community Halls & Garden group, for anyone who would like to help us to promote community wellbeing at the halls. Any support is appreciated ā this could be fundraising for our activities or perhaps helping our garden grow or lending a hand at one of our wellbeing sessions. If youād like to know more about the Friends of Dunstable Community Halls & Gardens, please contact us.