The London Borough of Barking and Dagenham (LBBD) began public consultation with residents re proposed savings cuts for libraries in 2012 and the following year, it was suggested that a registered charity be formed and that the building would become a Community Centre. LBBD promised to refurbish the building to also include provision for Childrenโs Centre Activities and an Ageing Well programme for the over 60โs in the community as well as committing to continue providing book stock whilst the Centre agreed to provide residents with a community library service staffed by volunteers, trained and supported by LBBD Library Service. Charitable status was granted in January 2014 and after refurbishment, Chadwell Heath Community Centre (CHCC) was officially opened for business on 4 October 2014 by the Mayor, Councillor Elizabeth Kangethe. The following year, on 15 July, another official opening took place when we were honoured by a visit from HM Elizabeth II and Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. A memorable occasion for all present. We have regular group sessions with Young at Heart (elderly activities) and Greenshoes Arts (various art activities)
A new era started in 2018 when a new board of trustees came on board. And a new Chair took over. We appointed a vice chair, and secretary, and treasurer. We now have paid staff which consists of a centre manager and social media admin. We are fully committed to rolling out full programmes for free for the local community. The centre became Whalebone hub in 2023 to help with council services. The centre has been changed with new rooms, we have a studio, Annes classroom, Main Hall, Kids library, and a meeting room.