An axed education centre in Kingsbury has been given a new lease of life once again thanks to an environmental charity.

Brent & Kilburn Times: The centre was closed following cuts by Brent CouncilThe centre was closed following cuts by Brent Council (Image: jan nevill)

The Welsh Harp Environmental Education Centre on Birchen Grove, has reopened following an arrangement between Brent Council and Thames21 under the town hall’s ‘Community Asset Transfer’ policy.

The policy was introduced last year and allows the transfer of council buildings to community groups.

Thames 21 has a track record of delivering effective, community volunteering, engagement and educational events and activities to local communities promoting environmental awareness.

The centre, which was a casualty of council cuts last year, provides an area rich in bio-diversity for pupils from primary schools in Brent to learn about all aspects of our environment.

Brent & Kilburn Times: Students join the fight to save the Welsh Harp educational centre when Brent Council first threatened it with closure in the 1980sStudents join the fight to save the Welsh Harp educational centre when Brent Council first threatened it with closure in the 1980s (Image: sibmitted)

Cllr Eleanor Southwood, Brent Council’s cabinet member for environment, said: “This particular transfer is the very first in Brent and means that the centre can continue as a valuable educational resource for local schools and children.”

Debbie Leach, chief executive of Thames 21, added: “It is a fantastic place to discover as it shows us that the natural world is very much alive and happening here in Brent and that we all have a crucial role to play in its future.”

The centre had previously been saved by closure in the 1980s and 2011.

It will have an official opening in the summer when all residents can tour its facilities.

To find out more about t Thames 21 visit thames21.org.uk or email welshharpcentre@thames21.org.uk