A MUCH-loved charity has announced its plans to transform an unused community centre in Yate into an accessible and vibrant space for people in need. 

Paul's Place, which helps and supports physically disabled adults, has recently revealed it has acquired Shire Way Community Centre. 

The beloved venue has been closed since 2022, following allegations issued by the Charity Commission of misconduct and mismanagement by the former management. 

Meanwhile, Paul's Place, which was previously based at Coalpit Heath Cricket Club, says they want to bring the building “back to life” and expand the number of programmes it currently provides. 

Plans include running daily activities, a community cafe, an allotment and a hire space for public use for activities and events.

Gazette Series: Shire Way Community Centre has been closed since last year after concerns were raised by the Charity Commission Shire Way Community Centre has been closed since last year after concerns were raised by the Charity Commission (Image: Google Maps)

The charity - which was created in 1995 - has supported hundreds of physically disabled adults and those with cognitive and sensory impairment since its launch.

It provides social activities that connect people, reducing isolation and giving people the opportunity to develop new skills and live life to the full.

Chief executive officer of Paul’s Place, Lynda Williams said: “Our current home at the cricket club has been great but with growth and increasing demand for our services, we have simply outgrown the building.

“We are extremely excited about our move to Shire Way and the opportunities it will create for not only the charity but the residents of Yate.

“Our charity’s vision is for a ‘Paul’s Place Hub’. 

"It will be a completely accessible building that will allow us to support more disabled people, in turn reducing isolation, increasing opportunities for physically disabled adults to enter employment, become a visible part of the community and live their life to the full.

“We really hope the local community will get behind our plans and support us as much as possible.”

Gazette Series: Yate mayor Cheryl Kirby and Cllr Paul Hulbert from Dodington Parish Council outside Shireway Community Centre Yate mayor Cheryl Kirby and Cllr Paul Hulbert from Dodington Parish Council outside Shireway Community Centre (Image: Handout)

So far, community leaders in the area have welcomed the news.

Cllr Louise Harris from Dodington Parish Council said: "We are thrilled to welcome Paul's Place to the Shire Way Community Centre. 

“I’m especially excited about the community cafe and looking forward to using it."

Yate mayor Cheryl Kirby said: "The prospect of a fully accessible Paul's Place Hub at Shire Way is genuinely exciting. 

“We are excited to see how the charity's expanded offerings will benefit the community and help individuals locally live fulfilling lives."