This page will be updated as the Black Country Commonwealth House Project progresses.
Details of the Black Country Commonwealth House Project:
Black Country Commonwealth House – Timeline of Progress and Events:
– Saturday 5th April 2025
Walsall Community Association begins restoring its main building as members of the association, along with local residents, participated in a successful workday to clear large areas of the building as part of ongoing restoration efforts.
– Saturday 3rd May 2025
Walsall Community Association continues to build momentum in its mission to restore the historic building at 36 Wolverhampton Road, and the latest workday marked a significant and heart-warming milestone.
This time, the association welcomed a remarkable addition to its team of volunteers, Commonwealth Military Personnel who enthusiastically rolled up their sleeves and worked side-by-side with local residents. Their presence not only brought additional manpower but also a spirit of solidarity and shared purpose that energised the entire day.
With the combined efforts of the community and military team, major progress was made in clearing a majority of the building’s interior and preparing it for the next stages of restoration. Laughter, teamwork, and determination filled the air as volunteers tackled their tasks with enthusiasm and pride.
The day’s success didn’t end with physical achievements. As the sun began to set, the community gathered for a spirited Domino Tournament, the perfect way to unwind and celebrate. Local domino champions faced off against the visiting Military Personnel Domino Team in a series of friendly, competitive matches that drew cheers, smiles, and plenty of playful banter.
The tournament added a unique cultural highlight to the day, bridging generations and backgrounds over a shared love of the game. Whether winning or learning a new tactic, everyone left with a sense of joy and camaraderie.
– Sunday 4th May 2025
The weekend’s spirit of togetherness and remembrance continues as the building hosts its first church service since restoration efforts began in a deeply moving occasion held in honour of the 80th anniversary of VE Day, to which we had the honour of hosting the Deputy Lieutenant Martin Levermore MBE and Bishop Wilton Powell OBE. The service offered a solemn and heartfelt moment of reflection, paying tribute to those who sacrificed so much, while also celebrating the renewal of a space that has long stood at the heart of Walsall life. Within the walls of the partially restored building, a sense of hope, resilience, and community pride echoed powerfully.
The Walsall Community Association’s restoration journey is not just about rebuilding a structure it’s about building bonds, creating memories, and shaping a brighter future together. With continued community support and meaningful partnerships like this one, the WCA’s vision is steadily becoming reality.
– Saturday 28th June 2025
Walsall Community Association proudly stages a vibrant and heartfelt Fish Fry & BBQ in celebration of Armed Forces Day, drawing families, local residents, and members of the Armed Forces together for a day of unity, recognition, and community spirit.
Held at the Walsall Community Association grounds, the event brought together people of all ages for a joyful afternoon filled with delicious food, engaging activities, and powerful moments of reflection and gratitude. A major highlight was a live outdoor Commonwealth food demonstration led by none other than the late Queen Elizabeth II’s personal chef, giving attendees a rare culinary experience steeped in royal tradition and cultural heritage.
Children and families were treated to a variety of fun and engaging activities including face painting, creative balloon display workshops, and interactive “tell a story/dance” sessions that encouraged expression and cultural storytelling. Adding a rich visual component to the day, a photo exhibition showcased Commonwealth and Foreign Military Personnel throughout history – offering a poignant reminder of the global reach and shared sacrifices of the Armed Forces.
The event was honoured by the presence of a representative from Walsall Council, who took time to engage with attendees and praised the Association’s outstanding efforts in strengthening community cohesion and celebrating the Armed Forces in such an inclusive and meaningful way.
In a powerful display of solidarity, a large group of Armed Forces personnel not only joined in the day’s festivities but also took part in the ongoing Walsall Community Clean-Up Campaign, demonstrating their commitment to service both at home and abroad.
Evadne Harris, Vice Chair of WCA said, “We’re incredibly proud of how the community came together to honour our Armed Forces. This event was not just about celebration, but also about education, remembrance, and service – values we hold dear.”
The Fish Fry & BBQ was well attended and widely praised as a resounding success, further highlighting the vital role community-led events play in building understanding and togetherness.
Walsall Community Association is dedicated to promoting unity, cultural awareness, and civic responsibility through inclusive events and initiatives that bring people from all backgrounds together.
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