Celebrating 30 Years of Community-Led Impact with Witton Lodge Community Association

December 9, 2024
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As we mark the 30th anniversary year of Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA), we look back with pride at the incredible journey we embarked on with our wonderful community. Born out of necessity and fuelled by the determination of local residents, Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) has evolved into a dynamic social enterprise and community landlord, leaving an indelible mark on North Birmingham. Over the past three decades, we have grown into a beacon of hope and transformation for our community, driven by our community-led ethos and the collective efforts of our residents.

Exponential Growth

Since 1994 WLCA has grown exponentially, managing over 200 properties for social, affordable, and market rent, including the innovative Sycamore Court Independent Living Scheme. Our work extends far beyond bricks and mortar; it is about people. We have also hosted countless community events, such as the Spring into Summer Festival, Halloween Spooktacular fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents.

Environmental Focus

Witton Lakes Eco Hub, opened in 2022, is a testament to our commitment to environmental sustainability and community well-being. This eco-friendly venue, built using energy-saving techniques and materials, serves as a hub for health, wellbeing, and ecology-based activities. From energy advice cafes to bike rides, gardening advice, and outdoor classrooms, we have created an accessible space where community members can thrive.

WLCA’s impact is multifaceted: we provide essential jobs and skills advice, offer robust information, advice and guidance service for benefits and energy efficiency, organise environmental projects, and support healthier living. We also deliver vital grants through the Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme and Shared Prosperity Funding, supporting many local groups and organisations to deliver much-needed services to residents across the Erdington Constituency. We are proud that our board, comprising resident directors, independent directors, and nominees from Birmingham City Council, ensures that every decision is made with the community at its heart.

Thankful

As we celebrate 30 years of community-led impact, we honour the passion and dedication of our founders and the countless individuals who have contributed to our journey. Here’s to many more years of regeneration, innovation, and community spirit. Together, we have proven that when people come together, they can achieve extraordinary things.

Celebration

We were thrilled to mark the incredible milestone of 30 years of Witton Lodge Community Association at a recent celebration held at Pype Hayes Golf Club.

It was an absolute pleasure to welcome a room full of amazing people who have supported WLCA over the past three decades. The evening was filled with joy, laughter and pride as we celebrated not just our achievements but also the countless relationships built along the way. Thank you again to everyone who has played a part in this journey and here’s to many more years of successful community-led impact.

Take a look at the amazing photos from this incredible celebration…