Welcome to THE 'FORD Community Centre: Where Community Magic Happens
It all began right here in Stockingford, where a modest Scout hut and St. John meeting place once stood proudly at the heart of the community. Over time, though, these much-loved spaces began to show their age—a little weathered, a little worn, but full of stories.
In 1993, the Cubs decided it was time for change. With determination (and a fair bit of charm), they appealed for funding to give their meeting place the care it deserved. Their efforts paid off, winning £10,000 from Warwickshire County Council’s Community Development Fund. A win worth celebrating!
But the story didn’t stop there. During the repairs, the community unearthed an unexpected windfall: £105,000 in Section 106 money from local property developers. Cue excitement, community meetings, and a bold approach to local councillors. Why stop at repairs when there was potential to create something brand new?
The momentum grew. Warwickshire County Council contributed another £40,000 from the sale of Honiley Hall, and St. John added £10,000. Piece by piece, the dream of a brand-new community centre was coming together.
A true partnership emerged—Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, Warwickshire County Council, the Scouts, St. John, and a group of passionate local volunteers. Realising that £165,000 wasn’t quite enough, they went further, securing additional funding until they’d raised an incredible £240,000.
Five years of grit and graft later, building began in 1998. By late 1999, the brand-new Stockingford Community Centre opened its doors. The first year was a mixed bag—some groups thrived, others faltered—but by 2001, with the help of a part-time administrator and a new board of trustees, the centre was finding its rhythm.
In 2005, the centre leaned even more into its roots, changing its name from Vale View to Stockingford Community Centre. Because names matter—and this one truly belonged to the community it served.
And now, fast forward to 2025: Stockingford Community Centre has a fresh new name—THE 'FORD Community Centre, and a bold new chapter. Today, it’s a buzzing hub of energy, creativity, and connection. A place where neighbours meet, friendships grow, and ideas come to life.
We can’t wait to welcome you in. Come and be part of our story, the best chapters are still to come.
