One Knowsley provides support for the social sector in the borough and has moved into a new HQ following an investment of almost half a million pounds
One Knowsley has now moved into its new 5,521 sq ft headquarters thanks to a £447,000 investment by Knowsley Council.
Following the refurbishment of the courtyard buildings in Court Hey Park in Bowring Park, One Knowsley has acquired the site in an asset transfer from Knowsley Council, supported by Livv Investment and the Fusion 21 Foundation.
Working with strategic partners, One Knowsley, the infrastructure support body for the social sector, will lead a renaissance of the site in partnership with local groups and the business community.
It will offer space for activities, meetings and workshops – with voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise groups all set to utilise Court Hey Park’s facilities.
Racheal Jones, chief executive of One Knowsley, said: “To have Court Hey Park in our borough is a real asset, with thousands of Knowsley residents utilising the park and its facilities every year.
“Our aim now is to add to the park’s offering, by creating a vibrant hub, that can be used and enjoyed to increase our community’s enjoyment of this wonderful space.
“This includes increasing the activities and events for local residents to benefit from and community events – including the yearly Knowsley Flower Show, which is set to return in August.
Before the community asset transfer to One Knowsley, One Knowsley’s Social Impact was £40.90 for every £1 invested in its work.
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Following the community asset transfer One Knowsley has increased its social return to £115.55 for every £1 invested in its work, representing a huge upturn and added benefit to the borough.
Cllr Shelley Powell, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods said: “A key priority for Knowsley Council is ensuring parks and green spaces across the borough provide good facilities and are well maintained for the benefit of the Knowsley community.
“We are delighted that One Knowsley shares our aspiration for Court Hey Park to create a vibrant hub offering a range of activities that promote social enterprise, community empowerment and environmental stewardship.”