Following the recent closure of South Woodford Library and Gym, we have been working in the background to ensure we can continue to provide a safe, welcoming space in South Woodford for our customers.
We are now excited to announce that we’ll be opening The Gym & Library @ Redbridge Drama Centre from 12:00pm on Tuesday 12 November.
When you arrive, you’ll notice we have successfully completed phase 1, which includes:
• moving the gym equipment you’ll be familiar with over from South Woodford Library and Gym
• redecorating the gym area and upgrading the lighting, power and wifi
• creating a new changing room space with lockers. The lockers require a padlock, and we’re giving away the first 300 padlocks for free to our members: 1 padlock per member.
• the redecorating of customer toilet facilities
• creating a new ‘quick choice’ library area for you to borrow and return books, space to study or relax and login to our public PCs and Hublets
Next, we’ll move on to phase 2 which will include:
• The creation of a brand-new group exercise studio, with additional capacity for classes
• An improved café offer with some tasty post-work out treats for you
Want to preview the new gym? Our team will be on hand to show you around at the following times:
5 to 8 November from 9am to 3pm
9 to 10 November from 9am to 12pm
Or you can sign up right away at https://visionredbridge.gladstonego.cloud/site-finder
Month: October 2024
“This is an outstanding local museum, both fascinating in content and very well provided. I wish my borough had something half as good!”
Redbridge Museum’s brand new, permanent exhibition has now re-opened following an exciting redevelopment planned with local residents, community groups and schools.
The new Museum received funding from Vision Redbridge Culture & Leisure, National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England, Art Fund, Rothschild Foundation Hanadiv Europe, Friends of Valentines Mansion, and Museum Development London.
“Love all the new exhibits, the hands-on aspect is great for kids and adults too.”
The Museum had its official launch on Thursday 10 October with attendees including those who had generously donated objects, photos and stories for the new Museum. Guests heard from Head of Libraries for Vision RCL Anita Luby, Vision Trustee Linda Perham, Leader of Redbridge Council Cllr Kam Rai, and Mayor of Redbridge Cllr Sheila Bain who cut the ribbon re-opening the Museum to the public.
“Our lives are a story – these exhibits show the story of many on the land which is now Redbridge.”
Redbridge Museum is on the second floor of Redbridge Central Library in Ilford. The Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 5pm.
Parliamentarians, library advocates, and allies gathered on Monday 21 October at the Parliamentary Terrace Pavilion to celebrate the pivotal role libraries play in transforming lives by creating opportunities.
The event featured best-selling author John O’Farrell, British Library Chief Librarian Liz Jolly, and key representatives from the library sector.
The event was jointly hosted by eleven prominent library organisations, including CILIP (the library and information association), Libraries Connected, and the Society of College, National and University Libraries (SCONUL), with sponsorship from Bibliotheca.
Lab Central was chosen out of hundreds of projects happening across the country for its innovative approach to engaging young people and for the strong partnership established with University of East London.
The event featured presentations from three library services illustrating the diverse ways libraries contribute to education and opportunity:
- Maria Reguera from Vision Redbridge Culture and Leisure introduced the library’s “Tech Time” sessions, providing coding opportunities in collaboration with University of East London students.
- Laura Benson from Warwickshire Library shared their “Chatterbooks” initiative, designed to engage reluctant readers in local primary schools.
- Rachel Ridealgh from Norfolk Library and Information Service highlighted “The Young Heritage Collective,” a group of young people exploring local history, including LGBTQ+ and women’s history, through creative projects.
Maria Reguera, Vision RCL Development Librarian said:
“I was honoured to attend the Libraries Change Lives Parliamentary Reception at the House of Commons with my colleague Michael. It was inspiring to hear from key figures like author John O’Farrell and to connect with other library professionals who share the same commitment to community impact.
We had the opportunity to share the work we’ve been doing in partnership with UEL through our Tech Time coding workshops. It was an excellent chance to highlight how we are helping young people and adults build digital skills and pursue their interest in technology.
Libraries truly change lives, and I’m proud to be part of a service that continues to make a positive impact in our community.”
Laurence Turner MP addressed the packed reception, stating:
“I’m delighted to host the Libraries Change Lives Parliamentary Reception, where we hear inspiring stories of libraries’ vital role in creating opportunities. From supporting lifelong learning to improving digital literacy for the most vulnerable, libraries are engines of social mobility. By supporting library services and professional staff, we strengthen society and ensure access to vital information and opportunities.”
John O’Farrell, renowned author and passionate library supporter, shared his personal connection to libraries, recounting early childhood visits that fuelled his love for storytelling and community.
“Libraries have played a huge part in my life, from my childhood love of books to using them as an author for research and writing. They make literature, knowledge, and education accessible to all, regardless of income or background. Even for those who never visit, libraries enrich society, nurturing talent, culture, and education. Libraries truly change lives.”
CILIP CEO Louis Coiffait-Gunn underscored the broad impact libraries have:
“Libraries Change Lives highlights the extraordinary value of libraries to diverse communities, showcasing the evidence of their impact. From supporting digital literacy to lifelong learning, professional library staff empower individuals to reach their potential. Investing in libraries is an investment in our collective future, and we urge the new government to support this vital profession.”
CILIP continues to advocate for libraries and their invaluable services, launching initiatives like the CILIP Connect toolkit to help members engage with political representatives and influence policy. Additionally, the Public Libraries at Risk Monitor tracks proposed funding cuts to local authority library services, ensuring libraries continue to thrive and change lives for the better.
To find out more about Lab Central visit our dedicated page.
Vision RCL congratulates Redbridge Council on the findings from a recent report by the independent organisation Impower, which has ranked the council as the leading authority in London and second in the entire UK for delivering outstanding value for money to its residents. This recognition highlights Redbridge’s commitment to quality services, even during challenging financial times for local councils.
Vision, a proud partner of the London Borough of Redbridge, plays a crucial role in delivering a comprehensive range of leisure and cultural services that enrich the community and enhance quality of life. By working closely with the council, we ensure Redbridge residents have access to vibrant recreational spaces, libraries, parks, and cultural events, reinforcing our joint commitment to quality and value for money.
Vision is dedicated to providing places where people and communities can thrive through the management of more than 50 parks and open spaces, including Hainault Forest, voted as one of the best Top Ten Parks in the UK in the People’s Choice Award 2023. From libraries and theatres to an outstanding award-winning nursery, cycling, water sports centres, and gyms, our facilities are as diverse as the community we serve.
In addition to supporting Redbridge Council to provide value for money and excellence, Vision attracts over £1m of external investment into the borough’s culture and leisure sector each year, to support the council to bring opportunities and building a brighter future for all Redbridge residents in partnership with the council.
To find out more about read the news story on the Redbridge Council website.
This October half-term, we’ve got an exciting array of activities to keep the kids entertained! Dive into Swim Crash Courses at Fullwell Cross, Loxford, and Mayfield Leisure Centres, or make a splash with our 5-Day Water Sports Camp at Fairlop Outdoor Activity Centre. For those who prefer dry land, thrill-seekers can enjoy action-packed Cycling Courses at Redbridge Cycling Centre.
This Weekend at Redbridge Drama Centre – Don’t Miss “Frankenstein” by Redbridge Creates Theatre Company!
Join us for an unforgettable adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic, Frankenstein, showing tonight, Friday 25 October, and Saturday 26 October. Presented by Redbridge Creates Theatre Company—the talented team and director behind past acclaimed productions of Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, and last year’s Twelfth Night—this performance brings the original 1818 text to life, enriched with additions from the 1831 version. Recommended for ages 11 and up, this thrilling take on Frankenstein is sure to captivate audiences.
Looking for more Halloween fun? Join IODS for a Spooktacular Halloween Quiz or catch The Witch and The Egg, a whimsical tale of a witch doing what she does best -living in a nest, flying around scaring people, and munching on biscuits. This grumpy, bad-tempered witch thinks she’s content alone, until one day she encounters an unexpected surprise: a giant egg! Plus don’t miss the spooky Halloween Celebration at Owls Play Centre, there will be a Halloween-themed entertainer, games, balloon modelling, and a face painter to transform your little ones into their favourite characters. Enjoy our spooky soft play area for extra Halloween fun!
Redbridge Libraries are also buzzing with family-friendly fun, from the energetic Bear Beatboxing sessions to captivating Storytelling events, and the much-anticipated return of our annual Festival of the Dead, featuring two unmissable events. Plus, outdoor adventures waiting for you at Hainault Forest!
To find out more visit our dedicated Children’s events page.
Vision Members are automatically enrolled into our Rewards Hub, a hub that’s designed to help you save money on daily expenses. In this blog post, we’ll explore five key areas where Vision Rewards can revolutionise your spending habits and maximise your savings.
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We all love treating ourselves to a delicious meal at popular restaurants. With Vision Rewards Hub, you’ll experience guilt-free dining without breaking the bank. Whether you crave the inviting atmosphere of All Bar One, the authentic flavors of Prezzo, the steak perfection at Miller and Carter, or the classic charm of Pizza Express, enjoy incredible discounts by using our Gift Card feature, and save up to 10% on your food bill. What’s more, because it’s a gift card, they can usually be used in conjunction with other offers!
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Creating your dream home doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With Gift Cards in the Vision Rewards Hub, embark on a budget-friendly journey to elevate your living space. We’ve partnered with renowned retailers such as Ikea, B&Q, and Argos to deliver excellent value for money. Reap the rewards of your membership with us this winter, and make your home a cosy space for the family.
4. Slash Your Mobile Bills with Honest Mobile:
Looking to reduce your monthly mobile phone expenses? Look no further. Vision has partnered with Honest Mobile, the UK’s top-rated B Corp mobile network trusted by thousands. Honest’s flexible SIM plans include the UK’s fastest 5G, a bill that drops every month, and customer support in seconds. Plus, it shrinks your carbon footprint by removing the CO2 of every call, text and selfie – twice over. Switch to an Honest eSIM in seconds to see why so many have already made the move.
5. Embrace the Smartwatch Revolution:
Investing in your fitness journey has never been more rewarding! Vision Rewards Hub opens the doors to savings on top smartwatch brands, including Garmin, Fitbit, and Oura. Track your progress, stay motivated, and transform your health while enjoying exclusive discounts or cashback opportunities. Make the most out of cutting-edge technology while optimizing your savings potential.
Remember, Vision Rewards is just one way we aim to support you on your journey to a healthy and fulfilling life. Stay tuned for more informative articles, valuable insights, and exciting opportunities coming your way. Let’s maximise your rewards and savings together!
Find out how to become a Vision member today, visit our memberships page.
After a major redevelopment, Redbridge Museum has reopened with brand-new displays that will take you on a journey from the Ice Age to the Digital Age.
Located in Redbridge Central Library in Ilford, the much-loved free museum has been transformed into a place of wonder where local families and visitors can learn about the history of Redbridge.
Mayor of Redbridge, Cllr Sheila Bain, officially opened the Redbridge Museum to the public last week at a ribbon cutting event. Attendees of the events included friends of the Museum who had generously donated objects, photos and stories.
The new exhibition showcases how local homes and town centres have changed over time – from a series of villages into a bustling suburb of London. Displays on Wanstead’s Roman villa and Redbridge’s oldest buildings sit alongside exhibits about the borough’s rural past.
Experience what it was like to come face-to-face with the mammoths that roamed Ilford 200,000 years ago, see fossilised bones of mammoths alongside a life-size replica of a mammoth skull.
In time for October half term, families can enjoy exciting interactive exhibits, puzzles, and games scattered throughout the galleries. A children’s area for under-fives features historical role play and dressing up, and a London bus to ride in. The Museum will also deliver an educational programme for schools.
The Museum involved the local community throughout the redevelopment, which was carried out by Vision Redbridge Culture and Leisure thanks to funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England, Art Fund, Rothschild Foundation Hanadiv Europe, and the Friends of Valentines Mansion.
Chair of Vision Trustees, Martin Solder, commented: “Redbridge Museum’s grand reopening marks a special time for families in Redbridge, where stories of our borough come to life once again. This reimagined space will be a place of discovery, where families and visitors can connect with Redbridge’s history, from ancient mammoths to modern diversity and learning how our past shapes our present.”
The Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Kam Rai, said: “The Redbridge Museum is a fantastic addition to the Ilford Cultural quarter alongside Mercato and Space Studios Art Gallery. It explores the rich history of our borough, providing an educational and interactive space for our local community and visitors, to learn about our local area.”
For information on opening times, please visit Redbridge Museum centre page.
Vision Redbridge Culture and Leisure is hosting a vibrant Black History Month celebration throughout October. The events are organised in partnership with Redbridge Council and local community organisations.
Redbridge Libraries have put together a wide selection of events for people of all ages. The programme features exhibitions, workshops, and activities across libraries, various craft and storytelling sessions for families. These events aim to educate and inspire by honouring Black history through art, culture, and shared experiences.
Last weekend over 900 attendees enjoyed Redbridge Outdoor Arts finale, Black British Ballet performance, Island Movements at Ken Aston Square in Barkingside and Ilford Town Centre. A short ballet that tells the story of Windrush and explores the impact of this generation’s experiences on their families, communities and society.
Event highlights include:
There will be special Black History Month Comedy Shutdown happening at the Town Hall on Friday 1 November. Acts will include – Robbie Gee (The Real McCoy, Netflix), Eddie Nestor (The Real McCoy, BBC London), Kat B (BBC, MTV) and Richard Blackwood (MTV, ITV, BBC, CH4). Advance Booking required, book your tickets for COBO: Comedy Shutdown here.
Redbridge Central Library are displaying Kassandra Gordon’s multimedia exhibition: Into the Light, based on the Black British Ballet Project. This exhibition showcases how black dancers have been present in British ballet from at least the 1940s onwards and ensures the presence and contribution of these pioneers has been largely forgotten.
Wanstead Library presents Black Victorians Portraits, this exhibition explores black presences in 19th and early 20th-century, through British studio portraiture. As a curated body of work, these photographs present new knowledge and offer different ways of seeing the black presence in Victorian Britain.
Join inIlford this weekend for a culinary adventure at the Food Fair, happening on Ilford High Road, Friday 18 and Saturday 19 October from 12pm to 6pm. Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere filled with delectable food and captivating crafts from around the world.
For more information on Black History Month, please visit our dedicated
Black History Month webpage.
Vision’s library service has secured nearly £30,000 of grant funding from Arts Council to support the delivery of its annual Day of the Dead inspired family arts festival.
The festival has been running for 5 years as part of the library service’s Death Positive Library project, where they are using creative activities and festivals to support communities to have important conversations about death, dying and loss.
This is the second year running that the festival has received funding from the competitive project grants fund administered by Arts Council England. This year the festival will be even bigger, taking place across two days and two locations – Wanstead and Ilford.
Taking inspiration from Day of the Dead festivals from around the world, the programme of carefully selected activities will encourage families to have gentle and sensitive conversations about death and loss, whilst celebrating the memory of loved ones who have died.
Key highlights of the 2 days include night-time lantern processions featuring spectacular giant puppets, flamboyant characters, music and dancing on Thursday 31 October in Christchurch Green in Wanstead and on Friday 1 November in Ilford High Street.
An array of arts exhibitions, crafts activities and performances will also be available at Wanstead Library and Redbridge Central Library for families to enjoy together.
Last year over 3000 people enjoyed the performances in Redbridge Central library and in Ilford High Street and it is anticipated that this year, even more people will enjoy the festivities over the half-term break.
Chair of Vision Trustees, Martin Solder commented:
“We are very proud of our library service for securing this funding from the Arts Council. Over the last 7 years, the pioneering death positive work started by our library service has encouraged thousands of people to talk about this important subject. The award winning and innovative approach taken by our library service has helped to make conversations about death, dying and loss, easier to have. This funding allows us to continue engaging Redbridge’s diverse community in creative and meaningful dialogue about a subject that affects us all, whilst also getting to experience high quality arts spectacles in the borough.”
To find out more about, visit our dedicated Day of the Dead webpage.
About the Death Positive Library
Redbridge Library Service is the UK’s first Death Positive Library Service.
Death positivity is an emerging philosophy that reframes the way people view death and encourages people to speak openly about death, dying and grief.
Death positivity is about making the most of life, reducing the impact that our deaths have on the environment, and allowing those who are dying to do so with greater dignity and comfort.
Since 2017, Redbridge Library Service has been exploring creative ways to help people talk about death and grief by using books, films, arts, and tea and cake! We host regular events and have curated book collections on all aspects of death, dying and bereavement. Our service has led the way in creating a national framework and has inspired other libraries across the UK and Northern Ireland to become death positive.
Following structural inspections, our engineers have discovered RAAC concrete in the Kenneth More Theatre. RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) is a lightweight concrete that was used in construction between the 1950s and 1990s. When this material is found to have degraded it must be replaced.
Following a detailed appraisal of the condition of the RAAC concrete we have had no choice but to close the theatre to protect the public’s safety. Engineers have conducted a detailed structural survey to assess the building and the level of works required before it can safely reopen.
They have outlined significant work that needs to be carried out to remove the RAAC concrete from the building, which means that sadly the theatre will need to be closed for the coming months. We have therefore had to relocate or cancel the immediate shows and events planned in this venue. We share in your disappointment that shows throughout the Autumn and Winter, and into next year will not be able to go ahead in the Kenneth More Theatre. This includes our beloved annual pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, which we have had no choice but to cancel. We understand how disappointing this is, as many people look forward this as a traditional celebration with family and friends. We have not taken this decision lightly. Ticket holders will be updated and refunds for cancelled shows will be processed automatically. Please do not contact this Box Office at this time as they are working to process these transactions.
However – we have been doing all we can to keep the tradition alive for visitors, and we are committing to staging a Christmas show in the Redbridge Drama Centre. Although the venue accommodates far smaller-scale productions than the one originally scheduled for the theatre, it still will be full of fun, song and Christmas spirit.
We are contacting the theatrical groups and organisations who have booked the Kenneth More Theatre, and will offer alternative space where possible, but sadly we do not have a like-for-like venue in the borough.
We know this thriving theatre is as important to many local people, as it is to us, and we apologise to the theatrical groups and audience members for the disappointment this will cause.
We will work relentlessly to make sure our theatre comes back shining brighter, and we assure you that the works undertaken will mean we have a theatre in Redbridge for many years to come. Thank you for understanding that we must and always will put the safety of staff, performers and audience members first.