A bold community vision is becoming a reality at the George Carnall Community Hub - but local support is still vital to bring it fully to life.
The Hub has officially revealed the name of its eagerly anticipated new café: Be Social, chosen by residents through a public vote.
More than just a name, it symbolises the character of the space - a place where people of all ages can come together to connect, unwind and feel part of something bigger.
The idea for the café was part of the community group’s original plan. Their early vision laid the foundation for what is now becoming a reality. Working closely with the Hub’s staff team and local stakeholders, the board has helped shape every stage of the project, from initial concept to community-led design, to create a welcoming, inclusive space at the heart of the Hub.
“The name Be Social came from the community, and so did the entire vision behind it,” said Kath Henshaw, Chair of the George Carnall Community Group. “This has always been about creating a space that welcomes everyone, and we’re proud that local voices are front and centre.”
With construction now underway, the team behind Be Social is launching a call to action: local residents, businesses and organisations are invited to help fund, support and shape the final stages of the café. Every donation, volunteer hour, or helping hand brings the project one step closer to opening its doors.
“Support from our partners has been incredible, but this is a café for the community, and it needs the community to help make it happen,” said Andy Brooks, Commercial Manager at George Carnall Community Hub. “We’re inviting people to get involved in any way they can, whether that’s through funding, volunteering, or simply helping us spread the word.”
Designed to be a central feature of the George Carnall Community Hub, Be Social will offer far more than coffee and snacks. It’s intended to be a lively, inclusive environment; a space to pause after a fitness class, catch up with friends, or simply feel at home.
The project is being delivered through collaboration with trusted local partners including Trafford Council.
In 2020, the Council handed over the control of the centre to the local community group as part of a Community Asset Transfer. The Council has made providing healthy and independent lives for everyone and providing culture, sport and heritage for everyone key corporate priorities.
Cllr Eve Parker, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Leisure, Arts, Culture and Heritage, said:
“We are delighted that the George Carnall Community Hub continues to be such a success. This a really important community facility and I would like to encourage residents to continue to support it through helping support the café.”
Passivhaus Architects, Progress in Practice is leading the café’s architectural design ensuring it blends seamlessly with the community hub’s vision and values.
Rowland Construction local based Building Company is managing the build, drawing on its strong track record of delivering high-quality community spaces.
The project also enjoys generous support from Cargill, which is proudly sponsoring the café as part of its commitment to supporting local initiatives.
Want to be part of bringing Be Social to life? To contribute, partner, or support in any way, contact Andy Brooks at andy@beactiveurmston.org
For further information, contact the team on 0161 413 3750.