FREE dance classes, cookery courses, arts and crafts workshops, music, health, fitness, wellbeing and bike maintenance – are just some of the events now running at the Bedminster Community Hub at 47 East Street, BS3. Created by local charity Share Bristol, the Hub shares premises with the Bedminster Library of Things, and offers no- or low-cost fun and education for adults.

 

The Hub sits at the entrance to the former St Catherine’s Place shopping precinct, and while the site awaits redevelopment it has transformed an empty store into a bright and welcoming, safe place for all kinds of activities. The project is funded by Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority to create a fresh triple win for this part of Bedminster and Southville:

 

· Positive opportunities for people to try new things, make new friends and have new experiences – in a step- and alcohol-free environment that’s open to all aged 16+

 

· Free space and subsidies for groups, individuals and companies to share their skills, products and services with the local community

 

· Attracting residents and visitors to East Street throughout the week to boost the local economy and streetscape.

 

“The area around East Street is changing so fast, and we’re here to reflect that change and make sure it benefits local people,” explained Community Hub Coordinator, James Burden. “The hub sits right at the heart of the regenerated Bedminster, surrounded by a tight network of roads, pedestrian routes, homes and businesses. There are so many impressive new housing schemes for students, families and all sorts of households nearby, plus exciting new commercial spaces to complement the existing shops and cafés.”

 

 

 

 

“We’re open for business and want the Hub to be the go-to place to go to in East Street. So if you’re looking for something different, interesting and enjoyable to do, or if you can run a session to reach and engage people, we’d like to hear from you. All ideas considered!”

 

Bristol-based ‘advocate for self-expression’ Libby Farrow has already led a number of events at the Hub, including ‘Body Moves’ dance workshops and a ‘She Shanties’ evening. “My sessions are all about helping people to discover their creativity and express themselves in the friendly company of others. The Hub is really central and easy to find – there’s a cosy atmosphere and it definitely brings something different to East Street,” said Libby. “I love the idea that people can look in, see what’s going on and feel confident to come along themselves next time.”

 

 

Events coming soon

 

To see what’s coming up at the Bedminster Community Hub, go to https://www.sharebristol.org.uk/events/ or follow the Eventbrite page at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/bedminster-community-hub-share-bristol-library-of-things-93157417943. Most activities are free to attend or just make a small charge to cover ingredients and materials.

 

See more whats on Bristol by going to https://directlocalbristol.co.uk/whats-on-bristol/