The Black Cat Centre blog

It's good to have a plan...

2010-05-25T08:28:00.000-07:00

Though the Black Cat Centre is still between active homes, just thought that we'd put out a brief update, in that we have teamed up with local community activist Lawrence Buabeng and his brainchild, the Snowhill Skills and Enterprise Initiative, who has been busy at work for the last four years in the local area of Snowhill, putting in work along much of the same lines as ourselves, but grounded with the local community in a much more stable way.

See attached for his plan:

"

BUSINESS PLAN
2010 – 2015

SNOW HILL SKILLS & ENTERPRISE INITIATIVE

lawrencebuabeng@googlemail.com

Executive summary

National statistics indicate that Snow Hill is in the worst third of neighbourhoods, with regard to the index of multi deprivation caused by low income, unemployment, and living environment.

The London Road has suffered from decades of poor planning decisions. It forms part of an arterial route that has a transient population, caused by the increase in multi-occupancy accommodation. There has also been a reduction in local services and business activity, due to the unfortunate practice of using retail units as residential accommodation.

The SHSEI is a social enterprise, set up in order to provide a locally-managed support infrastructure for the disadvantaged. The main objectives of the SHSEI is to help raise individual and collective aspiration, and to realise the untapped potential of the homeless, unemployed, ex-offenders, excessive alcohol and drugs users, and those with physical and mental health issues. The SHSEI will improve community cohesion, and develop community spirit by providing the following:
1.Accessible training, employment, and enterprise opportunities.
2.Volunteering opportunities for people to share skills and knowledge.
3.Increased and improved local community based services.
4.A structured programme of community activities and events for the benefit of all.
The SHSEI will adopt innovative approaches to dealing with entrenched social problems .Local residents, for example, have produced a series of short films about the area and its people, with the assistance of NESA (North East Somerset Arts). The film project was enthusiastically received and demonstrated the importance of collaborations between local and statutory stakeholders. The day to day management of the SHSEI will be undertaken by the community (Snow Hill Skills & Enterprise committee).
The creation of accessible opportunities in training, employment and enterprise is the primary purpose of the SHSEI. In order to achieve this we are in the process of developing projects and enterprises that open up possibilities for work, training, and volunteering . To this end, the SHSEI is consulting with local stakeholders to establish a Heritage/Regeneration centre on the London Rd, as an initial project, within the context of an overall plan to improve the locality ref. Alternative Vision for the London Rd and Snow Hill area (appendix 1.0).
The social, and economic impact of the SHSEI will be a reduction in, anti-social behaviour, as well as, the disparity between the affluent and the impoverished, in terms of health, culture, and prosperity. A comprehensive evaluation of the SHSEI has been conducted by Joan Geany - Local Improvement Advisor ref. appendix 1.2 SHSEI – Interim report.
In the present economic climate, self – employment is a very real option for those who find themselves, for all intents and purposes, to be ‘unemployable’. Developing confidence, leadership and team building skills will empower those who feel that they have been ‘written off,’ to return to the fold, and contribute to society by delivering cost effective public services.eg providing gardening and building maintenance service for elders.
Although the SHSEI seeks to be self sustaining in due course, it will require financial support from B&NES in the short term.

Aims and objectives
Ultimately, the goal of the SHSEI is to reduce the gap between the areas affluent and impoverished communities, with regard to health, cultural aspirations, and economic prosperity. The provision of , training, employment and enterprise opportunities, is part of an overall scheme to regenerate the London Rd and Snow Hill area. The intention is to engage disadvantaged groups in meaningful activities and projects, in such a way that they are better able to: identify and help meet their needs; asses their personal and social responsibilities; and enable them to participate more constructively in society.
In order to achieve the above, the SHSEI will embark on series of projects, designed so as to, help raise individual and collective aspirations:

Project 1 – Snow Hill residents film making project.
Four short films, produced by the SHSEI, and NESA, can be viewed on the following web link: www.ilovesnowhill.com
Snow Hill men
Out and about
News on the Hill
Festival on the Meadows

Project 2 – SHSEI Community survey
A street survey to be conducted by unemployed members of the SHSE sub-committee, in accordance with the guidelines set out by the LIA. The survey will ascertain specific needs and identify deficiencies. It will have the added benefit of inspiring confidence and developing the communication skills of those conducting the survey – all of whom will undertake public consultation training. The survey will also be used to further develop the case for using disused premises for training, employment, local enterprise, and housing for those in conditions of need
Project 3 – Design and implement landscape scheme for overgrown garden area; and repair grade II listed wall ( 4 Longacre)
The work will be undertaken by the long term unemployed under the supervision of a skilled stonemason and a BTCV ( British Trust for Conservation Volunteers ) team leader.

Project 4 – Heritage and Regeneration centre
The SHSEI is consulting with local stakeholders to begin the process of regenerating, and at the same time conserving and enhancing the neglected heritage of the London Rd area. These organisations move from the premise that the addressing of contemporary local issues, on a day to day basis, becomes the lasting legacy we leave for future generations. Engaging local people in their heritage, and the history of their area, can help foster a sense of community that is inclusive - celebrating all the stories of the people who live, or have lived in this key element of the City of Bath World Heritage Site.
Initially, we intend to establish a Heritage & Regeneration centre at No. 2 Caroline Hse. The premises is presently occupied by Shape Housing, and owned by Places for People (Preston). It has been confirmed that Shape intend to relinquish Caroline Hse altogether, but a formal statement to this effect has yet to be made. A breakdown in communications between stakeholders needs to be repaired if we are to make the most of the LIA allocated to the area. With the departure of Shape, the use of No.2 Caroline House (ground floor) by the community for heritage and regeneration exhibitions, will herald the beginning of the areas ‘brand’ improvement.
Exhibitions will be created with assistance from the BPT, who will provide: expert advice in relation to architecture and heritage; help with sourcing archive material and loan objects; and input into outreach events and learning programme. Regeneration consultation and public education will be achieved simultaneously. The Heritage and Regeneration centre will also be used to prepare the case for the development of No. 3 & 4 Longacre as a community managed Skills and Enterprise Centre (with reference to the Quirk Asset Transfer scheme).
No. 3 Longacre presents an ideal opportunity for a community project to renovate a grade II listed property as a showcase for illustrating how to adapt old buildings to become environmentally sustainable. An innovative approach to this project will deliver the following outcomes:
Increased employment and skills acquisition of young people in the locality
A restored No. 3 Longacre as a nationally important showcase demonstrating how to adapt listed buildings to reduce carbon footprint.
Building a sense of community and local ownership of their built environment, resulting in greater participation.
Improved public realm.
Strong and sustainable partnership between SHSEI , BPT and other key stakeholders.

Project 5 – Disused shop fronts – conservation and enterprise opportunities
There are approximately 445 grade II listed, and 55 grade I listed properties in the London Rd area. The conservation of disused grade II listed shop fronts is of historic as well as commercial importance. We hope to transform the London Rd into a heritage tourist attraction, using disused shop fronts to display archive material, that would otherwise be stored away from public view. The public profile, and audience participation of museums including the Building Bath Collection, No. 1 Royal Crescent, and the Museum of Bath at Work, will be greatly enhanced by having satellite displays on a major thoroughfare. The proposed improvements will be of benefit to Bath as a whole, enhancing a significant element of the World Heritage Site hitherto neglected. Working with B&NES Planning dept, and local landlords, we believe that regeneration of the London Rd area will help deliver the following five priorities (out of a total of eight) from the B&NES vision:
Improving the public realm
Building communities where people feel safe and secure
Addressing the effects of Climate Change
Improving the life chances of disadvantaged Children and Young People
Sustainable growth.

Project 6 – Snow Hill Skills and Enterprise Centre – community managed property development of No. 3 & 4 Longacre.
This major project, although ambitious, is intended to provide real opportunities in local training and employment. We are working with the architectural department of Bath Spa University and BPT to design and develop a comprehensive scheme for the two buildings. B&NES estimate for the cost of renovation works is £840K but if the buildings were transferred to the community, development and building costs could be dramatically reduced - it would be in the region of £150K - £180K.
3 & 4 Longacre have been left derelict for a number of years, they are owned by B&NES and have recently been put on the open market. There is a possibility of raising capital to purchase the buildings, however going through the process of a Quirk Asset Transfer may be the most appropriate course of action.
The ground floor of No. 4 Longacre and rear will be occupied by metal, wood and, stone craft workshops. The upper floor will house art and design studios with film making and performance space. An extension to No. 4 by adding another floor, will enable the provision of a cafe or a gymnasium.
No. 3 Longacre will serve as a support agency for training and employment and act as an information access point for housing or health issues. It will also provide IT courses, business support services for social enterprises(eg home care or child care), and office space for local entrepreneurs at minimal cost. A credit union or LETS scheme could also be introduced.
Detailed financial costings for this project are available in the Financial Plan section.

Corporate structure
The SHSEI will, in due course, become an independent social enterprise with charitable status. However, the long-term objective is to become a Community Interest Company with limited liability. The SHSEI will seek to address social inequality issues in relation to health, employment, and training by raising the aspirations and expectations of those on the ‘bottom rung ‘.
Stakeholders

The SHSEI is actively consulting, negotiating, or working with the following stakeholders:
Better Bath Forum
Bath Social Centre
Bath Spa University
North East Somerset Arts
Bath Abbey Homeless Initiative
Genesis Trust
NHS – Robyn Pound
Snow Hill Neighbourhood Organisation
London Rd Residents Association
B&NES – Stronger and Safer Communities
Member of Parliament – Don Foster
Cllr Terry Gazzard – Heritage and Economic Development
Cllr David Dixon - Walcot ward
Job Centre Plus
British Trust for Conservation Volunteers
Local Improvement Advisor – Joan Geany (SWRIEP)
Somer Community Housing Trust
Places for People

Management and Accountability
The day to day management of the organisation will be undertaken by the Snow Hill Skills and Enterprise committee.
Snow Hill Skills and Enterprise committee (SHSEI):
Lawrence Buabeng (Chairman SHSEI)
Caroline Deakin (Company Secretary SHSEI – market researcher)
Ozzie Ffield (former director of Evaluation and Performance /Birmingham City)
Ian Parsons (Colonel British Army)
Tom Boden (BPT- Education and Audience Participation Officer)
Maria Morris
Ali Scrase R.I.P
Rodney McEvoy R.I.P
Paul Brooker
Andrew Lucas
Joy Gibbs
Yousuf Harwood
Steve (Bath Social Centre)
Matt (Bath Social Centre)

Members of the committee will have a single vote on all issues, with the . All profits will be re invested in the SHSEI or used to set up new social enterprises. The SHSEI committee meet once a month.
Personnel - competence / staff requirements
The members of the two committees have all the required skills and professional acumen needed to take forward this ambitious scheme. They also possess the necessary commitment, passion, effort of will, and desire to deliver- all of which are ‘qualitative prerequisites for success.
As a locally managed training and employment scheme, priority for jobs created, will be given to local residents. It will, however, be necessary to bring in people with particular expertise or specialism’s, on a sub-contractual basis.
Student Volunteers have an important role to play with regard to community development. The SHSEI is currently working with Bath Spa University to develop a programme of potential academic/vocational collaborations.

Products and services
The SHSEI will introduce its portfolio of products and services in four stages, over a five year period.
Starter learning projects.
Introductory skills demonstrations and taster learning sessions in art and design, stone masonry, furniture restoration, metal work, gardening, and community consultation.

Basic life and work skills session – healthy eating, personal presentation, health and hygiene, self-respect and community responsibility (active citizenship), punctuality, team work

Starter IT courses with maths and English

Provide local job search skills support, interview techniques, on-line CVs, etc.
Improvement of the SHSEI corporate logo will assist in raising the organisations profile. No. 2 Caroline Hse, presents itself as the most appropriate, immediate location. The community survey will identify those most in need of basic skills training, and will be used as part of the ongoing monitoring and evaluation process . Sessions for specific groups (elders, those with mental health problem, single parents,)will be encouraged.
Short term enterprise projects.
Local residents film making project in association with NESA

Employment agency for local small works – gardening, building
maintenance, window cleaning, domestic cleaning, dog walking

Landscape improvement of public green space, behind No.2 Longacre (Caroline Hse), and rebuilding of grade II listed wall.

Parks conservation and street cleansing – rapid response handy man service on behalf of Somer.

SHSEI Community Survey
Costings for the above projects can found in the Financial Plan section and are dependent on the outcome of negotiations with, Somer, B&NES, People for Places, and Shape
Medium term social enterprise projects.
No.2 Caroline Hse : Establish Heritage and Regeneration centre, to hold exhibitions about the area’s past, present, and future. The centre will also function as an internet cafe with wholesome refreshments provided.

No.3 Longacre : Snow Hill Skills and Enterprise centre (1) – a locally managed renovation and refurbishment of the premises will provide local employment and training opportunities. When the environmentally sustainable development of this grade II listed property is complete, it will house: starter learning programmes; job search support services; Citizens Advice outpost; information access point for housing, health, drink and drug issues ; dept and benefit advice; as well as, social enterprise and business support services.

No.4 Longacre : Snow Hill Skills and Enterprise centre (2) – this building is not grade II listed, and as such may be adapted to suit requirements. The property will house: furniture making
and restoration workshops; metal workshop; and stone masonry. The first floor will contain art and design studios; film making and performance workshops, whilst the proposed second floor extension will boast a healthy eating cafe and/or gymnasium

We are in the process of preparing funding applications for the above projects.
Long term social enterprise projects
Accredited training, employment, and enterprise development, support agency.

Accredited home care service for infirm, disabled or elderly.

Building and garden maintenance service.

Accredited childcare service.

Credit Union and Time Bank (LETS)

Conservation, recycling,graffiti, and street cleansing team

Architectural ironworkers and stone masonry team

Furniture making and restoration service

Car valeting service.
In order to achieve our long term goals, we will need to: carry out detailed market research, and analyse capacity requirements; develop individual plans, policies and procedures, risk analysis etc, for each enterprise ; work with partners to deliver qualifications in child care and home care; register with Job Centre Plus as an employment and training provider, as well as applying to PCT/Social services for home care contracts.

Quality control and statutory requirements
Quality control, monitoring, and evaluation
1.Recruitment induction and initial assessment
All members of the SHSEI will undergo a continual monitoring and evaluation process – paid staff, volunteers, and clients. This will ensure efficiency improvements in all its projects. The induction process will determine the career direction the individual hopes to pursue, whether it be basic IT competence, or self-employment.
2.Individual learning, work, or enterprise plan
The information obtained from the initial assessment, will be used to develop a personal training / employment programme.
3.Progress reviews
Continual reviews will help identify deficiencies in the organisation, or its personnel, indicating areas for improvement.
4.Assessment reports
Assessment reports will determine whether, the direction chosen by the individual, is the most appropriate one.
5.Achievement reports
Inspiring confidence and rewarding excellence is central to the SHSEI ethos
6.Progression reports
This report concentrates on the development to the next stage of an individuals training, employment, or enterprise plan.

National quality standards and charter marks
The SHSEI will work towards to meeting the requirements of the national quality standards listed below:
Matrix Quality Standard for Information, Advice and Guidance
Adult Learning Inspectorate (Accredited Adult Learning)
OFSTED Inspection for Youth
OFSTED Inspection for Nursery Provision
Health and Safety Executive
Investors in People
PQASSO – Visible Standards for Community Associations
Statutory requirements
Equality of opportunity legislation
The SHSEI supports, unreservedly, all the equality of opportunity legislation listed below:
Sex Discrimination Act 1975
Race Relations Act 1976
Sex Discrimination Act 1986
Employment Act 1989
Disability Discrimination Act 1995
Protection from Harassment Act 1997
Human Rights Act 1998
Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000
Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001
European Directive on Equality in the Workforce 2002
Employment Equality (Religion) Regulation 2003
Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulation 2003
Employment Equality (Sex Discrimination) Regulation 2005
Disability Discrimination Amendment Act 2005
Equality Act 2006
Racial and Religious Hatred Act 2006
Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006
Planning considerations
The SHSEI is in the process of negotiations with B&NES Planning Dept in relation to the renovation of No. 3 & 4 Longacre for community use. The buildings are designated for commercial use under the Local Area Agreement

Environmental and socio-economic impact
The SHSEI programme of activities and projects will dramatically improve the visual appearance of a part of the London Rd, which at present , manifests all signs of urban decay and social deprivation. The proposed development of No. 3 Longacre, is intended to become a nationally important showcase, for the environmentally sustainable adaptation of a grade II listed property.
The scheme is designed to have a positive impact on the long term unemployed, and other disadvantaged groups by providing accessible, and targeted opportunities for self improvement through collective endeavour.
For those who are dependent on drink and drugs, the SHSEI represents a work based rehabilitation programme.
The benefits to the wider community include the following:
Provision of improved, cost effective public services
Reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour.
Improved public realm.
A more vibrant local economy
Improved reputation and perception of area (image)
Conservation of Heritage of London Rd
Reduction in unemployment
Community cohesion
The SHSEI will document, audit, and archive, all the information of its activities in detail, for purposes of external evaluation and, verification of performance indicators."

This doesn't mean that the Black Cat has finished with its own brand or vision, but just that we recognise the value of mutual aid and alliance, in these hard times...

New home? News to us!

2010-05-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

Whilst the Black Cat centre folks have generally been happy with the somewhat enthusiastic coverage by local weekly rag The Bath Chroncile, the latest confusion/misinformation is somewhat mind-boggling, as, to the best of our knowledge (unless there are radical splinter groups out there?), the Black Cat is still currently without a home...:

http://www.thisisbath.co.uk/news/Squatters-road/article-2137463-detail/article.html

"Monday, May 10, 2010, 13:57

Squatters move across the road

Squatters who had been occupying the old Porter Butt pub have moved to new premises on the other side of London Road.

They were evicted from the pub - where retail chain Richer Sounds wants to open a new hi-fi store - on Friday but are now occupying Caroline House.

This is a property owned by Bath and North East Somerset Council which at one time had been due to be used as accommodation by social landlord Somer."

Black Cat Evicted

2010-05-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

Black Cat has been evicted from the Porter butt pub last friday morning. It has no address at the moment.

Black Cat updates mark 2

2010-05-03T10:13:00.000-07:00

The Black Cat occupied community social centre is currently homed at the
former Porter Butt public house on London Road, Bath, opposite the E$$o
station and next door to Morrisons. We still have a lot of work to do,
cleaning and setting things up - volunteers always appreciated to the level
of mad, overbearing puppy enthusiastic adoration, slobber and all (napkins
provided) - but already have a couple of events lined up:

Tuesdays, from 6.15-7.30pm, weekly free yoga classes are back on, so come
soak up the authentic wood flooring and chilled late spring sunlight,
spiritual one-ness an' all

Wednesday 5th May will present 'Never Mind the Vote, Here's the Folk': an
evening of anti-folk, folk-rap & faux folk with 'The Casual Terrorist'
(anarcho anti-folk from Newcastle), 'Clayton Blizzard' (Brizzle's own chubby
guitar-wielding, wordsmith virtuoso), and 'Madame Hatter' (the Black Cat's
own miss-fit, decadence plumbing, answer to a very silly question); running
from 7.30pm-11pm, £3 suggested donation entry (though no one turned away for
lack of funds), there will also be cheap vegan food, and a potential free CD
of one sort or another for every punter

Saturday the 8th of May will feature the second incarnation of Madame
Hatter's 'Scabrous Cabaret', at 21.03 hours, free entry, a wide open stage
night for whatever performances people can bring, with DJish collaboration
from DJ Stoney Monster and DJ Beavis - dub/dancehall/Balkan beats: "Should
you be prudish puddings, freak frogs, vegan vultures, breakfast brutes and
funky fruits, bang poets or junk poets or even plain poets, blue cabbages
and pink trumpets, merry-go-round travellers or magic roundabout surfers and
hulla-hoop singers, studious students and naughty rodents, squatterpillars
or passers-by, funny flapping flowers or blooming butterflies, party people
or bursting bubbles, the usual crows and so many more if you're hungry for
the encore, you are all invited to the new edition of Madame Hatter's
scabrous cabaret for a night of sweet delirium open to all sorts of
performers, artists, poets, story-tellers... She's slim and slimy and could easily break into your pipery, Beware of Madame Hatter coz' of decadence she's the plumber..."

And following on from that frivolity, but in no way lessened by it, will be
the Bristol & Bath Rising Tide meeting - a campaigning group making a name
for itself taking direct action against the root causes of climate
injustice, from 7pm - all welcome

Events at this current location will probably come to a close following this, as we are due in Bath County Court defending against Julian Richer's possession claim on Friday the 7th May. C'est la vie

love, rage and kitty litty

Black Cat on the Radio

2010-05-03T10:05:00.000-07:00

Follow the link below to listen or download, for Sunday the 2nd of may's live e-broadcast of Kebele Radio, where Pink and Matt of the Black Cat did a brief update about the centre; interviews also featured the local correspondant on the Greek situation, and a spokesperson from the Ffos y Fran coal train blockade.

http://live1.radiovague.com:8000/archives/kebele/radio020510.mp3
http://live1.radiovague.com:8000/archives/kebele/radio020510.mp3.m3u

Kebele Radio - sounds and soundbites from our sibling social centre project in Bristol - are still fairly much in their infancy, and would be glad for any feedback on their show. if you have anything to say, contact them at radiokebele [at] riseup.net

Le Chat Noir La Update Nouveau

2010-04-23T03:37:00.000-07:00

We now have a new home at the former Porter Butt pub on London Road, Bath, opposite the E$$o station and next door to Morrisons. We still have a lot of work to do, cleaning and setting things up - volunteers always appreciated to the level of mad, overbearing puppy enthusiastic adoration, slobber and all (napkins provided) - but already have a couple of events lined up:

this Saturday, 24th April, from 9pm, in planetary conjunction with Co-operation Dub, we have our free invite Dub Club - donations appreciated but not mandatory! Come and help us house warm and stuff. One love, a'ight?

Tuesdays, from 6.15-7.30pm, weekly free yoga classes are back on, so come soak up the authentic wood flooring and chilled late spring sunlight, spiritual one-ness an' all

Thursday 29th April will see the latest in the Black ca free cinema, with a screening of 'Lianna': "Lianna (1982) was one of the first American movies to deal with a lesbian relationship in a non-exploitative manner, and set the template for director John Sayles' crafting of strong female roles and protagonists, largely ignored by the mainstream". From 7pm

Wednesday 5th May we will present 'Never Mind the Vote, Here's the Folk' (warning: name may change with better inspiration): acoustic free gig-thing with Georgie anarcho anti-folk fellow 'Casual Terrorist', Brizzle's own chubby guitar-wielding, guitar-welding wordsmith acoustic rap virtuoso 'Clayton Blizzard', Bath's own cider-fuelled farm rap duo 'The Clap' (still TBC), and probably Black Cat's chat perche herself, Madame Hatter. Time and other stuff still TBC

Heard it here first

love, rage and kitty litty

Spare a little (social) change?

2010-04-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

The ever-nomadic is temporarily between venues once more - will keep y'all updated.

Blink and you'll miss 'em: new location

2010-04-08T16:48:00.000-07:00

The Black Cat WAS now located at 100 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BG, in the former home of Ethos Cafe; though, as we lost our defence against B&NES' possession order on the morning of Thursday the 15th, we probably won't be here for long! We have a lovely shop front, though other space is limited, housing the Bath FreeShop, the infoshop, notice board, free tea and coffee, and the Really Radical Lending Library - more info on this to appear soon. We are open every day 11am-7pm, and if you're in the area, we'd love to meet you (particularly if you're interested enough to volunteer some time). We also have a bit of a wishlist at the moment, as furnishings and material goods are sparse:

tables
chairs
arm chair
sofas
large sauce pans
gas cylinder
portable electric oven
books for Lending Library
corkboard notice boards
paint
shelving - free standing or units
DVD projector (ha ha)

If you can provide any of this, it will be gladly received, and we'll sure our appreciation in our own special ways!

Also, if you have any ideas for classes, workshops, events, or know of anyone that can make use of our space, please don't hesitate to get in touch!

Black Cat's Portfolio of Unnecessary Evictions

2010-03-30T02:22:00.000-07:00

Regrettably, the current incarnation of the Black Cat Centre was evicted on the morning of Monday the 29th March, between 7.45 and 10:30am. Although resistance was strong on the Friday (huge thanks to everyone who helped out, in any capacity, and also those who turned up for the awesome dub reggae roots leaving party on the Saturday night, courtesy of the life-saving Dub Revolution crew - one love), two B&NES Legal Services personnel, two bailiff officers, around eight to ten burly bailiff grunts, two/three cars of cops, and a van in reserve of TSG cops were present, and it was all the Black Cat kitties could do to get someone to lock down up on the roof. The stunty cherry picker that B&NES brought along with them wasn't tall enough to dislodge our rooftop comrade though (apparently, sometimes size is everything), so the five minutes they originally had to clear out was soon negotiated up to just under an hour; so all tat was rescued, and there were no arrests. Let's call this one a draw.

So whilst Beat Manager Adrian "You won't have a community social space round here if I have anything to do with it" Secker was posing for funny photos near the graffiti claiming "this squat endorsed by Adrian Secker", and bailiffs stalked around bedrooms with sledge hammers, the B&NES Council charm offensive was out in full force, with their press release to the Bath Chronicle claiming that they had tried to help out and offered Black Cat a lease, which was declined (if anything, the opposite was true).

According to one bailiff's estimate, the unelected and undemocratic B&NES Property and Legal Service's single-minded and ridiculous clinging to the notion of heavy-handed eviction, rather than compromise and co-operation, has now charged Bath taxpayers to the tune of £30,000. For the Black Cat Centre collective, they are taking a hard-earned hiatus for a week or so, but will be back - so keep a keen eye here for updates, and apologies for this brief discontinuity in our service.

Black Cat Eviction this friday - come and stop it!

2010-03-23T03:38:00.001-07:00

BAILIFF RESISTANCE, STREET DEMO, FREE GIG

Enjoyed sticking it to the man at Jesters last week? The Black Cat
Social Centre on Lower Bristol Road in Bath is due for eviction this
Friday 26th March. This eviction will be resisted. In addition from
9.48am there will be a street demo with free acoustic music provided by
the fabulous Madame Hatter with special guests The Bailiffs (due onstage
at 10am). Blank text to 07529579130 to receive updates.

TAKE ACTION – SAVE THE BLACK CAT COMMUNITY SOCIAL CENTRE

For five months the Black Cat Community Centre has been providing a
free, inclusive space for community events. It has hosted open mic
nights, poetry sessions, yoga and dance classes, debt advice centres,
meetings and many more events based upon demand and all free of charge –
all have been keenly taken up by the people of Bath. This project is run
by full-time volunteers using abandoned buildings otherwise going to
waste. The council, in its infinite wisdom, has decided that this kind
of blatant altruism and community solidarity must come to an end before
the people start expecting the council to provide a decent service, and
as such are sending bailiffs in to evict us so that the Riverside
Studios may once again stand empty gathering dust.

THE BLACK CAT NEEDS YOU!

The first eviction attempt is expected this Friday 26nd March at
10:00am. We WILL be resisting this eviction attempt. This is OUR
community and we should not be afraid to stand as the people against
power-hungry politicians, fatcats, cops and bailiffs. From 9.48am there
will be a street demo with free acoustic music provided by the fabulous
Madame Hatter with special guests The Bailiffs (due onstage at 10am).
This is a call to the people of Bath and beyond to stand tall with the
Black Cat Collective. To receive updates and the all-important eviction
alert please send a blank text to 07529 579 130.

YOU DON'T HAVE TO GET ARRESTED TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

A large crowd outside the building demanding that the centre be allowed
to remain sends a very strong message to the council. There are also
many vital non-arrestable street roles including:

Grabbing supplies
Arrestee Support
Legal Observer
Media Liaison
Making lots of noise
Bringing all your mates
Bringing all your cameras / fitwatch

If you wish to get involved in any way, please come knock on our red
front door! Unit 3A, former Riverside Business Park, Lower Bristol Road,
Bath, BA2 3DW. (oppopsite pickfords)

Black Cat crew

EVICTION UPDATE

2010-03-19T07:02:00.000-07:00

Sadly, the Black Cat Centre is expecting eviction on Friday the 26th of March, at 10:00am. We will emerge shortly in a new and glorious building, no doubt.

Black Cat Kitty Antics: And Stay Out?

2010-03-14T16:34:00.000-07:00

The Black Cat occupied radical community social centre of Bath is currently located at the old 'Newark Works' building, Unit 3A, the former Riverside Business Park, Lower Bristol Road, Bath, BA2 3DW, a 5 minute walk from Bath Spa train station. However, their stay at that venue is looking currently threatened, which is a shame, because the building is particularly suited to its current use for community, art, campaigning, residential and performance events.

Whilst B&NES Council have decided not to follow up on the Black Cat collective's attempted negotiations with Property Services personnel Malcolm Grainger and Joanne Long, they handed court summons to the BC on Wednesday, who are in court to defend against eviction proceedings on Wednesday the 17th at Bath County Courts at 10am. Highlights from their argument went along the lines that, though the BC people seemed “personable and enthusiastic” their “business proposal” seemed “naive”, and they should be moved out in case they trip over, hurt themselves and sue B&NES. Whilst the Black Cat Collective are surprised to hear they made a business proposal to the council, they are saddened that the council have chosen to go against public opinion and against financial common sense to spend taxpayers' money on court and bailiffs, even though there have been no complaints regarding the community social centre's behaviour, and indeed, the council has no plans for the 2-year vacant building. B&NES instead made the decision to not legitimise the Black Cat's presence in the city, shockingly.

And the trouble doesn't just stop there. Bath police attempted at 15:15 on Friday the 12th of March to force entry to the building, kicking at the door and dislodging three bricks of the Grade 2 listed stonework, and claiming that the Black Cat people had broke in that morning – even though Bath police were informed about the occupation back on the 15th of February by 'Rely On' security. Beat manager Adrian “you won't have a community social space round here if I have anything to do with it” Secker, previously indicted by his own words of overstepping his own supposedly non-political remit, turned up and expressed lament that the Black Cat were still on his patch. Perhaps he should change his patch? Nevertheless, the police threatened to return and arrest the one resident, if they could find an excuse.

Police also turned up the next morning at the back door the around 10.40am, complaining about another supposed neighbouring break-in.

If anyone is unhappy with this turn of events, and can think of anyway to help persuade Bath & North East Somerset Council to change its mind, then they would be delighted to hear from you, via bathsocialcentre [at] googlemail.com, or over the phone on 07956 777609. It's always nice to have company at the Centre anyway, so why not drop round and say “hi”?

Friday 12th March: Madame Hatter's Scabrous Cabaret

2010-03-01T16:46:00.003-08:00

Should you be prudish puddings, freak frogs, vegan vultures, breakfast brutes and funky fruits, bang poets or junk poets or even plain poets, blue cabbages and pink
trumpets, merry-go-round travellers or magic roundabout surfers and hulla-hoop singers, studious students and naughty rodents, squatterpillars or passers-by, funny flapping flowers or blooming butterflies, party people or bursting bubbles, the usual crows and so many more if you're hungry for the encore, you are all invited to the first edition of Madame Hatter's scabrous cabaret for a night of sweet
delirium open to all sorts of performers, artists, poets,
story-tellers...

The Black Cat has currently hold of a massive gig space with a bar, a sound system, a grand piano and even a toilet for you to play with! Roof is high and acoustics much refined, come rock and trash the space and time with paint and taste, we wouldn't mind!

She's slim and slimy and could easily break into your pipery, Beware of Madame Hatter coz' of decadence she's the plumber...

Bath Needs a Social Centre! Campaign Launch

2010-02-10T04:10:00.000-08:00

For nearly six months, and in many different buildings, the Black Cat Centre has been providing the people of Bath with a free community centre space. In that time, the centre has been used by hundreds of members of the community, and runs dozens of workshops, meetings, cafes, gigs, skillshares and other activities each week as well as being a permanent home to Bath FreeShop and the Really Radical Lending Library. The massive support and use the centre has received is a sign that we are filling a vital gap in Bath's sense of community. We provide what the Council doesn't - a space for the community both providing valuable resources and activities and more importantly throwing a building open for the community to use in whatever way it sees fit. In this way, the Black Cat answers the specific needs of the community it finds itself in. If the community is lacking a low-cost cafe, someone sets one up in the Black Cat, in communities racked by money worries, the Black Cat has been used to host debt advice workshops etc. We do not want the Council to provide us with activities (which is lucky, coz they do a crap job of it!), we want a space that the community can use for whatever it wants, to answer its own specific needs and desires.

For this reason, we have launched a campaign to pressure the Council to give the Black Cat Centre a permanent home in one of the hundreds of disused commercial properties around Bath. If you think that the Black Cat is an important part of Bath culture, and a useful community resource, pop on down to the centre to sign the petition, and keep your ear to the ground for upcoming protests and events.

Black Cat Centre has a new home!

2010-02-09T14:29:00.000-08:00

After a productive month at the Methodist vicarage, the Black cat has moved on to pastures new. We are at the top of West Avenue (just around the corner from the old building) and our address is

63 West Avenue
Oldfield Park
Bath

We will only be in this building for a very short time (probably a week) and obviously have a bigger better place lined up for then, but for now, all Black Cat Calendar events are running as usual at the above address.

We have a massive list of activities every day, and are being used more and more by the local community, so come on down, or drop us an email if you want to start your own group or workshop.

For a full list of Black Cat calendar events, check out www.bathactivistnetwork.blogspot.com.

We got papers - not the good kind!

2010-01-26T09:59:00.000-08:00

Well, it's that time of the month. The second incarnation of the Black Cat centre is due in court on Friday morning of the 29th January, having been served an Interim Possession Order.

CLIMATE CAMP WESTSIDE REGIONAL GATHERING, 16TH & 17TH JANUARY 2010

2010-01-10T13:07:00.001-08:00

The weekend of 16th and 17th January sees the Camp For Climate Action
come to Bath, as the Black Cat Social Centre in Oldfield Park hosts the
regional Westside gathering. The weekend will see climate activists from
across the South West converge upon Bath to draw together experiences of
the G20, Climate Camps this summer (Cymru, Scotland and London), the
Calais camp, ongoing No Borders activity, Co-Mutiny, the Ratcliffe swoop
and recent events in Copenhagen as a basis for 'where do we go from here?'

The weekend promises to be a great introduction to radical climate
action, as well as the opening of a brand new and much-needed autonomous
social space in Bath. Anyone who is looking to explore empowering routes
to climate justice is warmly encouraged to attend. Crash space will be
provided but bring a sleeping bag!

--------------

For more information please email westside@climatecamp.org.uk or call
07796 864 649 (leave a message if no reply). The Black Cat Social Centre
can be found at the Oldfield Park Methodist Church, in the space between
West Avenue, Triangle North and Triangle West, postcode BA2 3QB. It is
about 20 seconds' walk from Oldfield Park Train Station which runs
direct trains to Bath Spa and Bristol Temple Meads.

EVICTION ALERT!

2009-12-14T08:03:00.000-08:00

We have now received notice that court bailiffs plan to evict the Black Cat at 11 am in the morning of Wednesday the 16th of December.

If you have appreciated what we’ve tried to do here – convert a long empty and beautiful building into a useful community resource and a home for those in need – then please contact us if you can offer any help. At the very least, a representative of Cabot Investments will be on the scene at that time, so why not pop along and let them know what you think about them.

As for the Black Cat itself, we should have a new, (hopefully more long-term) home for the centre in the new year, and we’re still on the look-out for any user groups and exciting ideas to make use of the space – be it toddlers’ groups, dance/music/
art/theatre rehearsal, cookery courses, book clubs, open mic nights, conservation or campaigning groups meetings, practical skillshares… the options are limitless! For any of the above and more, email us at bathsocialcentre@gmail.com.

Upcoming: housewarming gig and open day

2009-11-17T18:02:00.000-08:00

Call out for help!

2009-11-17T17:58:00.000-08:00

The building is massive, and in pretty good nick, but we need help before we open the doors, so come and get involved in the beginning of an exciting new social centre with loads of potential.

In particular, we need people who are up for coming along and helping get the place ready for opening, and to run activities once the place is open – cleaners, painters, electricians, artists, minor hole in roof menders, artists, musicians, radicals, dreamers, schemers, your mates and assorted malcontents are all welcome!

We already have several initiatives in the pipeline, such as the home of the Bath FreeShop, infoshop, the Really Radical Lending Library, samba dancing classes, pole dancing classes, café, workshops, activist self defence sessions, squat games and more – and we are up for anyone with ideas or skills to share to come and contribute to the space.

The social centre is being run as a counter-capitalist initiative, run by consensus, and giving a living example of how we can create a world based on solidarity, mutual aid and co-operation, not greed and authority. To get involved in any way, big or small, contact us at bathsocialcentre [at] gmail.com