Brent Council’s £90million civic centre was officially opened at a ceremony attended by thousands of people yesterday.

The free event, which ran from 12noon to 7.30pm, offered an array of music, dance, arts and performances attracting more than 5,000 visitors.

The day culminated with Cllr Bobby Thomas, Brent Mayor and Cllr Muhammed Butt, leader of Brent Council, being joined on stage by 21 young ambassadors, one for each of Brent’s wards, to cut a ribbon and declare the centre open.

Council chiefs claim by moving all its departments and services under the one roof will save around £2.5 million a year.

The civic centre has been recognised as the greenest public building in the UK.

Other events included a succession of performances in the main foyer from local bands and Brent Music Service, a 5k fun-run around Wembley Stadium, Adanta African dance and theatre, mass Zumba, a poetry slam and Angels Cheerleading Academy.

Cllr Butt said: “The event was about bringing people together to celebrate this fantastic state-of-the-art building, our vibrant borough and the local talent who performed on the day.

“It was a fantastic experience, all the local community came out, everyone really enjoyed the day and celebrated the work the council has done to make the civic centre a true community building.”

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