Cabinet set to approve the creation of community hubs in North Tyneside

Six centres in North Tyneside could be transformed into thriving community hubs if plans are approved by North Tyneside Council’s cabinet this evening (22 May).

Designed to address the evolving needs of the Boroughs residents following the pandemic, the community hubs would create one-stop-shops where residents can access local services, resources, and a vast range of support.

The Council’s four existing Customer First Centres and two community centres are included in the exciting proposals, which aims to make the hubs the focal points of communities.

As part of the community hub strategy, Cabinet is set to hear how the proposal will enhance the brilliant support already on offer through a tailored approach.

Increased access to libraries and customer services are listed as a priority in the offer, alongside more space for community meeting spaces and activities and wider digital inclusion support. There will be close liaison with existing partners and providers to ensure a joined-up approach too.

There are ambitions that residents of all ages would benefit from the hub too, whether that’s using the open spaces for physical activities or engaging in the health and wellbeing support on offer.

Cllr Hannah Johnson, Cabinet Member responsible for Environment at North Tyneside Council, said: “We’re really proud of our commitment to public facing services in the borough and since the pandemic, we’ve seen an increase in the number of residents who are choosing to access our services online.

“We know not everyone wants to access services digitally though and keeping face-to-face support is still needed. The community hubs strategy sets how we would change and continue to make our hubs welcoming and inclusive spaces that become a focal point for community activity.

“Each hub would feature core services like libraries, customer services and digital access as well as introducing a wide range of well-being services, skills, training, and support. It’s a very exciting proposal and would have huge benefits for our communities.”

The next step would be the creation of an 18-month programme delivery plan to see the hubs established.