The borough’s first new community centre in “at least 20 years” will open in Goodmayes next month.

Goodmayes Residents’ Association (GRASS) started renovating the disused building in Green Lane last year with funding from Redbridge Council and Swan Housing.

Speaking at the area committee five meeting on Monday evening, chairman Keith Stanbury revealed last- minute parking issues postponed the official opening scheduled for later this month – but says he “fully expects” to be in the new centre in December.

He said: “All the construction work has now been completed. We as the tenants now have to fit all the smaller items that make it what it should be, like toilet roll holders.

“There has never ever been a jointly funded community centre in Redbridge, so this is a first. It’s certainly the first new one in the borough in at least 20 years,

“We are gagging to get in there as quickly as possible and looking forward to getting all the GRASS members in for a Christmas party.”

The centre will include a hall, computer suites, kitchen, toilets with disabled facilities and an office.

It is thought the centre will be used by Goodmayes police Safer Neighbourhood Team as a contact point, as well as by children’s groups, day care and sports clubs.

Congratulating Mr Stanbury at the council meeting at Barley Lane Primary School in Huxley Drive, Chadwell Heath, Cllr Ali Hai described the centre as representing the joint efforts of the entire Goodmayes community.

He added: “This is the first community centre in the area that I’m aware of and I have lived here for almost 40 years.

“It’s absolutely fantastic news and just shows the power of the people.

“The councillors have played a very small role in this, and it’s the residents who have taken control.”

n If you would like to use the centre, email keith@goodmayes-residents.org.uk.