Huddersfield’s HUDAWI Centre could soon be community-owned in what has been hailed an “exciting new chapter” for the town’s African and African-Caribbean communities.
The HUDAWI Consortium, a partnership made up of African and Caribbean community groups, says it has secured “landmark success” after Kirklees Council accepted its expression of interest in taking over the HUDAWI Centre in Huddersfield town centre.
Due to its financial difficulties, the council had flagged up several assets it was considering disposing of, including the HUDAWI centre. However, the local authority was open to exploring Community Asset Transfers, with the consortium’s plans now progressing to the second stage.
A spokesperson for the consortium said: “If successful on the second stage application process, we will be able to assume full responsibility for the building including entering into a long-term lease of a max of 125 years thereby securing the future of the centre for the African and African Caribbean Community and residents.
“This historic achievement marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Huddersfield’s African and African Caribbean communities and the diverse communities that live within Kirklees, as the HUDAWI Centre’s true purpose—providing a spiritual, cultural, and social home—comes closer to realisation.”
The Consortium was formed in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests and during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is currently made up of the following organisations: The Black Business Support Agency (BBSA), Building African Caribbean Communities (BACC), Black Lives Coalition, The Alliance of Black Churches in Huddersfield, Education 2000, Oasis Care Support Services
The spokesperson said: “Our collective skills and experience will now be directed toward developing a vibrant and inclusive community hub that will meet the cultural, educational, and social needs of the community.”
Now plans are progressing, the consortium wants to engage with the wider community to help shape the future of the new cultural centre and ensure it “truly reflects the needs, aspirations, and heritage of the people it serves”. Further details are to be published in the coming weeks.
While the council said it could not discuss any details around an individual applicant, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, Cllr Graham Turner, said: “The HUDAWI Centre has brought great benefit to the local community over the years, which is why Cabinet approved the building for a Community Asset Transfer.
“By looking to transfer ownership of the building to a local community organisation, we’re confident that the HUDAWI Centre can remain a place that brings people together. We’re very optimistic about the centre’s future.”
