It felt like the “end of an era” for some Oxford folk as diggers demolished a beloved community centre building.
The Blackbird Leys Community Centre has stood at the heart of one of Oxford’s most close-knit communities for more than 60 years.
Many residents can remember playing in the building in Blackbird Leys Road when they were young children.
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But they were forced to say farewell yesterday (Monday, January 29) as the building started to be knocked down.
“So many memories in the club growing up,” said Kerri Morse as pictures of the demolition were shared online.
Heather Morrey-Carter added that it was the “end of an era”.
Pictures from the Oxford Mail archive show children playing snooker and making crafts in the centre from as far back as 1965.
The centre is being knocked down as part of a major redevelopment of the Blackbird Leys area by Oxford City Council.
A £7 million facility will replace the community centre, although it has drawn objections over the impact on wildlife and other facilities.
Earlier this month, the city council’s cabinet member for housing said the old centre was at “the end of its life.”
Labour councillor Linda Smith said: "It was very inefficient in terms of space and poorly designed by modern standards.
“The whole thing is being re-designed to incorporate new flats and shops."
A detailed planning application for the community centre is intended for submission in spring 2024 and will include a proper outline of its design.
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