JohnPart of an East Leeds community centre could be transformed into a community shop, if plans are approved by the council.
Two ancillary rooms with Swarcliffe Community Centre in Stanks Gardens could be transfiormed into a community shop, with proposals including a replacement main door.
Plans are submitted by the surplus food and goods redistribution Company Shop Group. In a letter accompanying the application, they said: “The Community Shop supports communities which are in the bottom 10% of the indices of deprivation.
“Unlike typical retailers, Community Shop is a membership only store which sells goods at a deeply discounted price to those who live locally and in receipt of means-tested benefits, in addition to providing additional support through learning and development programmes. Its main aim is to build stronger individuals and more confident communities.”
Company Shop Group will also operate a community hub and community café and kitchen. These services will utilise existing facilities (for example, existing rooms and kitchen) within the centre and provide a community function.
The plans can be viewed in full here.
Support independent community journalism!
East Side Story covers the people, places and stories in Leeds that are too often overlooked. While national headlines chase conflict and clickbait, we focus on real communities and the issues shaping daily life in East Leeds.
Divisive content, AI noise and online rumours spread faster than ever. At the same time, many mainstream outlets are stretched and rarely spotlight the community organisations and local champions who deserve recognition.
East Side Story was created to change that. We answer only to our readers. We have no corporate owners or billionaire funders. Our journalists report freely, ask difficult questions and hold power to account.
Your support helps us keep this work going. Monthly contributions make the biggest impact because they allow us to invest in deeper reporting and fearless local journalism.
Supporters also receive exclusive updates, behind the scenes insights and other benefits as a thank you for keeping independent journalism alive.
