Pleas to save Nottingham youth charity as team 'locked out' of building
A decades-old youth charity in the centre of Nottingham is under threat of closure after claims their new landlord left them "locked out" of their building. Nottinghamshire Clubs for Young People (Notts CYP) signed a 99-year lease for their premises at the Monty Hind centre on Leen Gate in 1962.
But in November last year the landlord, Nottingham Co-Operative Society, sold the property to a new owner. And now, the anonymous new owner has allegedly reclaimed the building by forfeiting the lease because of an alleged breach of a covenant - and the not-for-profit has been left fighting to save its "much-loved" centre.
A statement online said: "Unfortunately, the new landowner has caused many struggles and challenges and are disputing our lease. Obviously as a charity, the concept of a legal battle is not only worrying and intimidating but will be a huge drain on our already struggling finances."
Founded in 1935, Notts CYP is an organisation that supports vulnerable and disabled people through partnership with local youth clubs. It hosts an "extensive activities programme" of adventure days, camps, sports coaching and tournaments.
But on Monday, September 9, the charity announced via Facebook that the centre would be closed for the night and the regular Monday night youth club would be cancelled. The post said: "Sorry for any inconvenience caused but due to an issue with the building we cannot open this evening."
Then on Tuesday, September 10, the charity explained, saying: "We are aware that there is some concern over the changes to our services this week. We are working to remedy this situation with our solicitor, as our new land owner has forfeited our lease on an alleged breach (we do not accept this breach).
"Most of our services will continue this week at another venue and our young people are aware of this. Sorry we have no more information to share with you at the moment. We appreciate all your support and understanding with this matter."
The charity did not reveal who the new landlord is. When Nottinghamshire Live contacted the charity, a representative said they did not want to comment further while solicitors are involved.
But users of the youth clubs and of the charity's services reacted with sadness online. Celia Woodford said: "This is just terrible news."
Becky Brown said: "This is terrible. I hope we get to continue with youth club for many more years. I have loved working here and have grown in confidence and love you all." And Gail Moran said: "Isn't this shocking. I hope sense prevails in the end. Such a marvellous service provided for all the young people. You dont deserve this hassle and worry. Love to all xx."
In the days since, the charity has relied on te goodwilll of other property owners in the city to host them temporarily,including the Thomas Helwys Baptist Church in Lenton and the Old Basford Community Centre in Old Basford. A fundraising page has also been set up online for those who wish to donate to help the charity's legal battle.
More than £4,000 has been raised through more than 100 donations so far. You can donate here.