The Anstice Community Trust

The Anstice Community Trust (ACT) is a UK-based nonprofit organization registered under charity number 1162626. It was established by a group of local residents to manage and preserve The Anstice, a Grade II listed historic building located in Madeley, Telford.

History and Background

The Anstice originally opened in 1870 as a Victorian working men’s club, renowned for its ballroom with a sprung dance floor that was celebrated as one of the best outside Blackpool. For many years, the building served as a vibrant social and cultural hub, hosting dances, concerts, and community gatherings. However, by 2014, due to a decline in the popularity of working men’s clubs, The Anstice building fell into liquidation.

In response, the local community rallied to save the building through a passionate campaign initiated by three local women, which quickly gained substantial support. Over 900 supporters joined the campaign's Facebook group within two weeks, and local councillors were lobbied to assist in the building’s preservation. Subsequently, Madeley Town Council acquired The Anstice and partnered with the Anstice Community Trust to lease and renovate the building.

Mission and Activities

The Trust’s mission is to operate The Anstice as an inclusive community venue that fosters local pride and social engagement in an area considered one of the top 10 most deprived in the country. The refurbishment has restored the building’s historical features while introducing modern facilities, including a café, meeting spaces, and reinstating Madeley Library.

The Anstice Community Trust runs the building as a multi-purpose venue hosting a wide array of events such as birthday parties, wedding receptions, business conferences, award ceremonies, and cultural activities. It plays a significant role in revitalizing the town center of Madeley, offering a unique and affordable venue for the local community.

Community Impact

The Anstice Community Trust has significantly contributed to the social and cultural life of the local area, fostering a tightly-knit community where many feel a strong sense of ownership and pride in the building. The Trust emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility, a notable evolution from the building’s earlier days when women were not allowed membership.

According to June Campbell, Secretary of the Anstice Community Trust, the revival of The Anstice has brought new life to the town center and provided vital social and cultural opportunities in an underserved community.

Summary

• Name: The Anstice Community Trust
• Charity Number: 1162626
• Location: Madeley, Telford
• Building: The Anstice, Grade II listed Victorian building
• Founded: Post-2014, following community-led campaign
• Purpose: Preservation and community use of The Anstice as a cultural and social venue
• Notable Aspects: Historic ballroom, community ownership, inclusive access, revitalization of local area

The Anstice Community Trust exemplifies a successful community-led effort to preserve heritage while enhancing social cohesion and cultural life in a deprived area.