Do it for Druitt

A campaign to raise £1 million for a new community centre for Christchurch has had a kick-start with the launch of a website aimed at attracting donations.

A new Druitt Community Centre to replace the ageing hall behind the library in the High Street has long been a dream for Christchurch residents. Now with plans drawn up and planning permission secured, the fundraising is to begin in earnest.

www.thenewdruittfund.org.uk has been designed to give background information about the proposed centre, along with a 3D rotating image of how the building will look.

A comprehensive fundraising pack can be downloaded to give ideas for ways in which people can get involved to “Do It for Druitt”. The website has details of a “Buy a Brick” campaign whereby individuals or organisations can get their name recognised by buying one of 1,000 foundation bricks for the centre. There are also opportunities to become a sponsor or patron of the building.

People can donate money to the fund securely via Paypal from the site using credit or debit cards, but details are also given of other ways to donate money by post or in banks.

Sandra Prudom, chairman of the Druitt Community Centre Steering Group, part of Christchurch Community Partnership, said: “This is a great opportunity for people to take ownership of a building which will really be at the heart of Christchurch. The website is full of suggestions on ways people can get involved to bring this project to fruition and have fun at the same time.

“When the building is completed, it will provide adaptable space for a wide range of groups and organisations to use. I would urge everyone who cares about the community in Christchurch to visit the website to see what it’s all about and get involved by donating money or partnering us in fundraising so that we can get this wonderful building completed as quickly as possible.”

The New Druitt Community Centre will be a landmark building in the very heart of Christchurch and a fitting gateway to a newly restored Druitt Gardens.