Save the Carnival Learning Centre campaign has grown considerably in the last week.
Following a meeting to discuss the future of the centre last Thursday, we understand that another has been organised for this coming Friday Thursday.
Campaigners against the closure, Claire Kay, Helen Davenport, Helen Butcher, Shelley Davenport, Jane Pearce and Hannah Larkin have been very active in spreading the news about the possible closure and in a detailed newsletter, highlight the impact of closure on the community.
As well as impacting on the Opening Ceremony of the Island Games in 2011, the Finale of the Cultural Olympiad in 2012 and the Blue Touch Paper Carnival, the cuts in service will have a knock-on effect for Islanders too.
The closure will also mean a vital educational Centre for adults and young people of all ages, abilities and social groups will be lost. The impact on continuing education for a deprived economic area will be horrendous; especially as the outreach learning projects the Centre currently provides for the island and further afield, will deprive certain soci-economic groups of a vital resource. Local Carnival Associations and Groups that currently utilise the Centre will also be affected. The financial loss to the islands economy cannot be ignored either, as the summer carnival scene on the island boosts the local economy substantially. The Ryde illuminated carnival itself attracts 50.000 visitors, providing employment for a wide range of people, who in turn pass on their skills to others within the island community.
The arts and creativity are a vital core of engagement in the community which over 10 years have retained a base of excellence and productivity, engaged the community, the CLC has a positive impact on tourism, healthier communities and social inclusion, all the things that make people build together enjoyable experiences and self esteem.
All are welcome to a meeting taking place this Friday (17th) Thursday (16th) at 7.30pm at the CLC, Westridge Centre (behind Tesco), Ryde.
Join the Facebook Group to stay in the loop of what’s happening with the Campaign.
Image: © Calire Kay
