Nest egg saves centre

Money-savvy trustees of old have been praised for their frugal ways, which have helped save a vital community centre from disrepair.

The Marlborough Community Centre, in Blenheim, opened its doors on Monday to show-off a vital $400,000 makeover.

Trustees past and present were at the Alfred St centre to celebrate the transformation.

Marlborough Community Trust chairman Neville Lawson said the foundation for the work had been laid in part by past members.

‘‘They are the ones who helped set up the funds for the work and we are grateful for that.

‘‘When, a year ago, a decision was made to upgrade the building, it was the trustees of before who had established a nest egg for the development,’’ he said.

Groups such as Age Concern, Birthright Marlborough, Blenheim Early Childhood Centre, Citizens Advice Bureau and the Family Budget Centre all use the centre.

Without the improvements, community groups might have been forced to look elsewhere for space.

Upgrades have seen both a security and fire detection system upgrade, four new offices upstairs, a large downstairs seminar room, new LED lighting, fibre optics, paint and new carpeting.

The cost was met by a $190,000 grant from the Rata Foundation, a Marlborough District Council allocation of $111,000 and $125,000 from the trust itself.

After he officially declared the revamped centre open, Marlborough Mayor John Leggett said the enhancements would be beneficial to all 20 community groups using the facility and their clients.

‘‘I’d like to commend the trust who deserve a lot of credit for helping provide a safe and secure environment for the tennants and a better environment for clients.’’