Charity Loses Fight to Save Portsmouth Regeneration Project

Learning Links unable to revive funding for Treadgolds

Hampshire-based charity Learning Links have confirmed that the main source of funding for the restoration of former ironmongers Treadgolds in Portsea has been withdrawn by the BIG Lottery fund. The site was due to be converted into a vibrant community, arts and heritage centre in one of the most deprived areas of the city, but the funding has been cut after the building work was hit by delays. Chief Executive Zoë Gray said: “The whole team at Learning Links worked really hard at getting this project off the ground and we’re really disappointed by this decision. We know the community really wanted this project to succeed and make Treadgolds not only a part of the region’s heritage but also a vibrant centre for community development, arts and learning for generations to come. Learning Links is unfortunately not in a position to commit to a £2.3m project without the largest part of the funding in place. It’s a sad day for us, and for Portsmouth.” The project was taken on by Learning Links in 2006 at the request of the community because of their reputation and ongoing commitment to the Portsea area, where Learning Links first started its work. Although this was a new venture for the charity, they were keen to develop the centre which clearly meant so much to Portsmouth and they received the support of the local councils and community in their aim to breathe new life into the historic building. Having negotiated a package of £2.3m from a variety of sources, which included substantial investment in the project from Learning Links’ own resources and appointment of specialist staff, substantial funds initially committed by the BIG Lottery from the Office of the Third Sector have been withdrawn. Although Learning Links were doing their utmost to establish this project, numerous unforeseen delays were experienced, mainly due to the downturn in the economy. This drastically decreased the market value of the Treadgolds building and meant that the entire business plan and existing funding commitments had to be re-scoped causing further delay and leading to subsequent withdrawal of the funding by the . Zoë Gray added: “Learning Links will continue to build upon its successful work in communities across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, equipping individuals with the skills and confidence to realise their goals and potential in life. Our Treadgolds vision involved the creation of numerous new learning and employment opportunities for the local community, as well as preservation of local heritage, on a site that has lain derelict and unloved since 2003. Although we have not won our battle to retain the funding, we remain committed to bringing Treadgolds “back to life” for the benefit of the community. We have already approached a number of organisations locally, who may be able to help make this vision a reality, and we appeal to the business community or any organisation interested in Treadgolds to please contact us. We would be delighted to share our vision and planning and we’re open to new ideas.” To voice your support of the project, join the Treadgolds Arts and Heritage Centre Supporters Facebook page; share your memories of Treadgolds and your ideas for the future. -Ends- Words: 387 Image:

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