A competition was launched this week to find a name for Britain’s first purpose-built intergenerational centre.
A competition was launched this week to find a name for Britain’s first purpose-built intergenerational centre.
The £3.5million building, set to open in early 2010, is hoped to provide a range of shared services and facilities all under one roof for older people, children and young people across the borough.
Merton residents are being called upon to vote for their favourite name from a shortlist.
Those who vote will be entered into a draw to win a range of prizes including Wimbledon Theatre tickets, restaurant and cinema vouchers.
Councillor Debbie Shears, cabinet member for Children Services, said: “We want the residents of Merton to make the final decision about what their new intergenerational centre will be called.”
The centre is the first of its kind in the UK and Councillor Shears hopes the centre will become a hub for the whole community and wants the name to be representative of and appeal to Merton residents.
Merton council say the centre will offer indoor and outdoor spaces, horticultural areas, a Children’s Centre and an adventure playground which is due to be open by the summer 2010.
Possible names include the futuristic iGen, MertonEngAGE and the more sedate Elms Intergenerational Centre.
The centre is situated in Eastfield, Mitcham between Lonesome Primary School and St. Mark’s Church of England Academy.
Funding for the centre is provided by the London Development Agency, Department for Children, Schools and Families SureStart Children’s Centres and Merton Council.
Denise Burke, Head of Youth and Childcare at the LDA said the centre will provide Merton with services and facilities for families, groups and individuals of all ages, supporting education and training, childcare and transition to employment.
Voting closes January 15 2010 and residents can vote for their preferred name online at www.merton.gov.uk/intergenerational_centre or via email to [email protected]
