Barking and Dagenham Council has announced Hedgecock Community Centre Ltd (HCC) as the new leaseholder for Fanshawe Community Centre in Barnmead Road, Dagenham, recognising the centre’s importance to local residents and the wider community.
HCC is expected to formally take on the lease following acceptance of initial terms, after a competitive selection process involving local stakeholders and building users.
Under the terms of the lease, the centre will continue to operate as an inclusive, community-focused space that benefits a broad cross-section of residents. The facility will provide accessible and affordable opportunities for local people and groups to use the space. All current and future use of the centre will be brought into a consistent, supportive framework to ensure every activity contributes positively to the community and reflects a shared standard of quality and inclusivity. The lease will also stipulate that the centre cannot be used for additional religious worship, addressing recent local speculation.
HCC is a registered charity with a strong track record of managing community spaces through a structured, community-led approach. At Hedgecock Community Centre in Upney, HCC delivers a wide range of activities including youth enterprise programmes, women’s fitness and wellbeing sessions, boxing and HIIT classes, educational workshops, and cultural events. The organisation is recognised for creating welcoming, accessible environments while maintaining strong governance and operational standards.
The community centre will remain operationally independent from the neighbouring mosque, which is separately managed by the Dagenham Islamic Welfare Association (DIWA).
Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader of the Council, said: “I’m pleased the council is partnering with Hedgecock Community Centre to deliver a thriving community space for all residents. Throughout the competitive process, HCC demonstrated strong facilities management experience, a clear approach to governance, and a commitment to meaningful community engagement.
“The council is proud of our diverse communities, and partnerships like this help ensure our community spaces are inclusive, well-managed, and responsive to local needs.”
Tojomul Ali, Chairman for Hedgecock Community Centre Ltd said: “We are pleased to have been selected to manage Fanshawe Community Centre and look forward to working with local residents, groups, and partners as we begin this next chapter.
“Our approach is to listen, learn, and build on what already exists, while bringing greater consistency and support to how the space is used. Drawing on our experience at Hedgecock Community Centre, we aim to create a vibrant, inclusive environment with a strong mix of activities - from health and wellbeing programmes to youth development and community-led initiatives - that reflect the needs and aspirations of local people.
“We are committed to creating a space where everyone feels welcome and where the community can come together, participate, and benefit.”
HCC will begin engagement with local residents, user groups, and stakeholders, following the signing of the lease, with further updates to follow as plans for the centre develop.