WHITECROOK’S Centre81 is preparing to mark 10 years of local service – and community leaders want to take it even further in the coming decade.

The community space was officially opened in July 2008 and is to hold its 10th gala day on August 4.

John White, chairman of Clydebank East Community Council, said Whitecrook can’t imagine the area without it.

He told the Post: “Other communities have commented on how well it has been run and contributed to the area.

“We have never looked back. This is our 10th year and we’re trying our best to make it more special. If we didn’t have it, I pity to think where we would be.

“Even after only 10 years, they can’t imagine it not being there.”

Centre81 has a number of courses as a stepping stone for residents getting back into work and is used daily by local groups of all ages and backgrounds. Mr White said some think they own the place, referring to it as “our Centre81”.

A new community garden is also in the works with possibilities such as raised beds at the bottom of Braes Avenue.

Mr White added: “We still have a very far way to go.”

Clydebank Housing Association, who run the centre, said they were committed to the wider role of regeneration activities to enhance the quality of life of association tenants and other residents. They also thanked the wide array of bodies who provide funding to keep the space and its projects going.

Alan Karas, community connector at the centre, said: “Centre81 is a very enjoyable place to work, we get the opportunity to engage with the community and help build community capacity through formal and informal activities. The work can be very rewarding and is overall very satisfying.”

The gala on August 4 runs from 12pm to 4pm.