A community grocery store which will help cut food waste while supporting people in need is one of the innovative services planned for Sleaford’s Riverside Centre.
Charity Sleaford New Life Church with its Community Impact Team has signed up to take over units at the rear of the centre, off Southgate, and will be turning part of the space into a community grocery store.
The store, set to open in June, will take surplus food from sources such as retailers or manufacturers. People will pay a yearly membership fee and then, will be able to purchase up to £25 worth of goods for just £5. They’ll also be able to take advantage of recipe cards and demonstrations illustrating cookery skills.
New Life Community Impact has also submitted a change of use planning application to turn another part of the building into a space for the town’s young people. If granted, it would become home to Sleaford Youth Club, currently based at Sleaford Children’s Centre. This would enable the charity to expand and offer weekday and school holiday activities.
Volunteer Team Leader Rod Munro BEM said the group were excited about establishing another base in the town.
“We run Sleaford Community Larder and we’ve identified a need for another service which will help those taking the next step, those that are supporting themselves. The community grocery store will be open to all and members will benefit from access to produce that is still fit to be used for a low price.
“At the youth club we are outgrowing our current space. We have around 70 young people who attend on Fridays, taking part in activities like cooking, art and gaming. The pandemic has had a huge impact on young people in terms of anxiety. We’re keen to reach out and provide a safe place for young people to go after school and during the school holidays.
Rod Munro BEM said the charity has further plans for the site including a space for mental health support groups, as well as outreach advice services for issues like utilities, budgeting, digital and employment support.
“The Riverside Centre is an ideal location as it is accessible and we think there’s lots of potential,” he said. “As well as paid staff, we have a team of over 180 volunteers across all our activities and there will be further volunteering and apprenticeship opportunities available too.”
Lincolnshire Co-op owns the centre and it is managed by agents Banks Long and Co.
Lincolnshire Co-op’s Regional Property Manager Ed Greaves said: “We’re pleased we can help New Life Community Impact provide more services in Sleaford.
“The work the charity does with the food bank, the youth club, and so much more is valued by the community. These new premises will enable the team and the dedicated volunteers to reach even more people.”
Recent lettings in the Riverside Centre include Sleaford Fight Academy, which offers classes in a range of martial arts, and a Post and Packing service due to open soon. They join Sleaford Post Office, Press 2 Play gaming and video store, Envy hairdressers, Dixon’s Opticians, Mobile Phone Tech, Card Factory, Dee’s Gifts, Costa Coffee and Sole Therapy chiropodists.
There’s local interest in the two remaining units and it’s hoped more lettings will take place during the next few weeks.
James Butcher, from agents Banks Long and Co, said: “We’ve been working to bring new services to the centre over the years, during some difficult times for the commercial property sector. It’s great to see more organisations and businesses coming to the Riverside Centre to join our existing tenants.”
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