A baby and toddler group in Dunblane has raised concerns over changes being made to a community centre that could potentially lead to the group shutting down. Twinkletoes Baby and Toddler Group, operating out of the Braeport Centre for the past decade, expressed disappointment in a letter to the centre’s management after being notified of a move to a smaller room effective January 1.
The group, run by volunteers and parents, highlighted that the new room, the Haining Room, has a capacity of 50 compared to their current space, Cathedral View Room, which accommodates up to 80 people. They stressed that the reduced capacity, coupled with a significant cut in storage space for their equipment, would severely impact their ability to operate safely and effectively. Without adequate space, the group faces the possibility of disbanding as they struggle to find an alternative venue.
In response to the changes, Twinkletoes has initiated a community feedback form to gather local opinions on the proposed alterations and the group’s contributions to the community. The lack of consultation with the group before implementing the changes has been a point of contention for Twinkletoes, as they strive to provide a valuable playgroup for families in Dunblane.
Sam Todd from Twinkletoes expressed disappointment at the lack of effort to engage in discussions to find a solution, noting that the new room’s smaller size leaves them with limited options. The group, operating on a non-profit basis, faces the prospect of transforming into a baby-only group or potentially disbanding by December to comply with the relocation deadline in early January.
Another user of the Braeport Centre, Monument Dance Centre, also voiced concerns over the communication regarding the changes, citing an email mishap that led to confusion among the users. In response, the Dunblane Development Trust (DDT) stated that a lease agreement had been reached with a local fitness and sports health business, impacting some existing activities at the centre.
DDT assured that the majority of activities would continue with minimal disruptions and that efforts were being made to assist affected users in adapting to the changes. The trust emphasized the importance of rental income and community support in maintaining the centre’s financial sustainability. The lease arrangement is seen as a step towards securing the centre’s future and enabling improvements to its facilities.
The situation at the Braeport Centre underscores the challenges faced by community groups in adapting to changes in shared spaces. The need for open communication, collaboration, and consideration for all users’ needs is vital in preserving the valuable services and activities provided by these groups. Local communities play a crucial role in supporting and sustaining such initiatives, ensuring that they continue to enrich the lives of residents.
In conclusion, the story of the baby and toddler group facing closure due to reshuffling at the Braeport Centre highlights the importance of transparent communication and community engagement in decision-making processes that impact local groups. It is essential for stakeholders to work together to find solutions that support the continuity of vital community services and activities. Such situations serve as a reminder of the value that these groups bring to neighbourhoods and the need to preserve and nurture community-centric spaces for the benefit of all.