Online petition launched to reopen park's community space
A community group has launched an online petition to reopen a park’s community space after Sunderland City Council put a hold on proceedings.
Elemore Collective CIC already has hundreds of signatures on its petition to reopen the community space that stands in Elemore Park, in Houghton-le-Spring.
The group was awarded the lease by Sunderland City Council in May, however, members were told shortly after that the process had been put on hold.
Iain Scott and Sean Laws, directors of Elemore Collective CIC, said: “Councillors have cited that they want to scrutinise the allocation of leases on all community assets.
"In this time, we are aware that two other leases have been granted while Elemore remains on hold.
"We've been given no firm timeline on how long this process will take.”
The community space closed back in Spring 2025 and has stood empty ever since.
Elemore Collective is hoping it will soon be able to open a “warm and community-focused space” in the park.
Iain and Sean said: "What we want to deliver extends far beyond the commercial use of a cafe and garden centre.
"We will be engaging with local community groups, local schools and youth provisions to encourage them to use the space we have.
"We want to open this building for the community and provide something for everyone.”
Sunderland City Council said in a statement: “As the owner of public assets, we must ensure all decisions relating to leases and property arrangements are subject to due process.
“As part of that responsibility, a review of processes relating to community asset leases is underway.
“This work is ongoing and some matters may take longer to conclude while checks and considerations are considered.
“We will provide further updates in due course.”
Iain and Sean added: “At present, we have no timescale for delivery or confirmation as to the next steps we need to take in order to take possession of the centre.”
Elemore Collective will be presenting its petition to Sunderland City Council at the next full council meeting on Wednesday, November 11.
The petition can be signed online at https://www.elemorecollective.co.uk/petition.