Major upgrades completed at St Johns and Highwoods Community Centre

Colchester City Council, in collaboration with St Johns and Highwoods Community Centre, is pleased to announce the successful completion of improvement works at the community centre, following a significant investment of £200,000. This investment reinforces the council’s commitment to supporting community facilities in North Colchester, ensuring their long-term viability and sustainability. 

St Johns & Highwoods Community Centre is a vital hub for local residents, offering a variety of events, activities, and services.  

The funding has been used to enhance and extend the life of the community centre, making essential upgrades to its infrastructure. The improvements include the installation of double sliding entrance doors to improve accessibility, as well as the installation of fire shutters to enhance safety. The existing boiler has been replaced to ensure greater energy efficiency, and upgrades have been made to the children's play area to provide a better recreational experience.  

New emergency exit doors have been installed to improve safety measures, while the roof has been replaced, and solar panels with battery storage have been fitted to promote sustainability. The car park has also undergone improvements to enhance accessibility and convenience, and new stacking chairs have been purchased to support community events and activities, alongside a stunning mural at the Highwoods Community Centre by artist Adrian Leroy and students from The Gilberd School. 

These enhancements will ensure that St Johns & Highwoods Community Centre continues to be a valuable and well-equipped space for residents and community groups, providing improved facilities for a wide range of activities and services. 

Cllr David King, Leader of the Council said: “This investment will ensure community facilities remain welcoming, accessible, modern, and sustainable. Allowing the centre to continue serving residents effectively, supporting local initiatives and clubs and social engagement. I look forward to other improvements to come across Colchester, through the Council’s community asset fund.  Announced in our budget this year this will help other upgrades to provide great places for community life to flourish, as in Highwoods and St Johns.” 

David Clouston, Chair of Trustees at St John’s & Highwoods Community Association, said "We are deeply grateful to Colchester City Council for their generous funding towards environmental and sustainability works at the Community Centre at Highwoods during 2024/25. This grant has enabled us to make significant structural improvements that reduce our environmental impact and enhance the Centre’s long-term sustainability. On behalf of our entire community, thank you.”