Charity responds amid local opinion on Sale ‘LifeHub’ community centre plan

A charity has responded following an angry response from nearby residents over its plans to build a £20m community centre on a greenfield site in Sale.

The Three Meem Foundation looks to have struck a deal with Trafford Council to rent out Goodwood Field in Sale West on a 25-year lease and has released a CGI of how the facility would look.

But some angry residents interrupted a Trafford council executive meeting on Monday (01 December), voicing fears over what they claim would be dangerous traffic congestion and nuisance parking near their homes.

Three Meem says it is a Trafford-based, not-for-profit charity promoting health, fitness and education, founded in 2018.

It says the building will be a LifeHub 'for body, mind and community spirit’ aimed at bringing together the community in a ‘welcoming and inclusive space'.

Backed by a number of private funders, the charity says it intends to create 25 jobs and support apprenticeships.

The charity says there will be opportunities for people to ‘train, play and get active’ in a fully-equipped gym and indoor sports hall in badminton, basketball, gymnastics, martial arts, Taekwondo and pilates.

Workshops on health cooking, nutrition, stress and money management as well as access support for mental health, diabetes and heart health will be provided, it says.

There will also be an on-site cafe, with residents offered a free hot meal served seven days a week. An on-site creche is also part of the plans.

Founder, Dr Tariq Razzaq said: "We want to create a place that belongs to the people of Trafford. It will be a welcoming centre where everyone feels valued and supported. By investing in health, education, sport and opportunity, we’re not just building a physical community centre, we’re building confidence and stronger communities for all."