ABOUT US
The Cliftonville & Coatdyke Community Group (CCCG) serves as a vibrant hub at the heart of Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire. Originally established in 1971 as the home of Coatbridge indoor bowling club, the facility has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to the dedication of local volunteers and strong community support.
In 2018, a group of eight committed individuals recognised the need for a central gathering space in the area and founded CCCG. This initiative marked the beginning of an inspiring journey to create a multifunctional community centre while preserving the legacy of the Coatbridge Indoor Bowling Club.
A significant milestone was achieved in April 2021 when CCCG secured ownership of the stadium with the help of grant funding from the Scottish Land Fund. This accomplishment set the stage for further growth and strengthened the group’s commitment to fostering connection, growth, and opportunity for the local community.
​In 2022, the addition of a Development Officer brought fresh energy and expertise to the organisation. Tasked with driving growth and ensuring sustainability, this role became pivotal in advancing CCCG’s vision.
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By 2023, CCCG had further solidified its position as a cornerstone of the community. Funding from the National Lottery Community Led Fund and The Robertson Trust enabled the expansion of staff and services. A new administrative team, including reception and account staff, was brought on board, along with an ever-growing team of dedicated volunteers, ensuring the smooth operation of the centre and enhancing the visitor experience.
The group’s vibrant calendar of activities in 2023 and 2024 has included a Kids Summer Program, creative arts and crafts workshops, festive wreath-making sessions, Santa’s Grotto visits, entertaining bingo nights, and a festive Christmas pantomime. The introduction of new classes and groups has also expanded CCCG’s reach, catering to diverse interests and needs within the community.
In April 2024, CCCG welcomed a Centre Manager to oversee operations, implement strategic initiatives, and strengthen partnerships with local stakeholders. Under their leadership, the centre continues to deliver exceptional services and programs, ensuring its place as a dynamic and inclusive space for all.
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Indoor bowling club to be transformed into new hub
Community group develop business plan for site bought through Community Asset Transfer scheme and lottery funding.
An indoor bowling club in Coatbridge is to be transformed into a new hub for locals after being bought by a voluntary group. Cliftonville and Coatdyke Community Group has worked closely with North Lanarkshire Council (NLC), The Development Trust Association for Scotland, and the National Lottery to develop a business plan for the regeneration of the building. Through the community asset transfer scheme, and with £190,000 of lottery funding, the group has bought the building and plans to make improvements to it. When it’s complete, the new hub will offer a range of activities and education opportunities for people of all ages, as well as a café, meeting and events space.
Lizzanne McMurrich, head of communities, told Lanarkshire Live: "Congratulations to everyone involved in the Cliftonville and Coatdyke Community Group for their efforts in giving this building a new future for the benefit of the whole community.
“The building will become a hub for community activities, bringing together local groups and individuals, and is an excellent example of what can be achieved when the voluntary and public sectors work in partnership."
Chairman of the group, Alex Forrest, said this was "a very important time" for the local community and volunteer groups throughout Airdrie and Coatbridge. He added: “The purchase of the building will provide a focal point for our community and the present first class bowling facility will be augmented by a wide range of activities for all the community.
“We would like to thank our partners for helping to make this dream come to fruition; Roslyn Griffith and Douglas Tate (North Lanarkshire Council); Katie Alexander (Scottish Land Fund); Elyn Zang (National Lottery Community Fund); and, most importantly, Lynn Molleson from Community Ownership Support Services.
For more information, or help, please contact us on 01236 428641.
Article from Coatbridge & Airdrie Advertiser/Daily Record - June 2021
FUNDERS
We extend our deepest gratitude to all our invaluable funders whose unwavering support has kept us on this journey of growth and development. Through your generous contributions over the years, we have flourished into a vibrant community hub, enriching the lives of our local people through diverse activities and events. Funding has facilitated our expansion but has also empowered us to enhance our staffing, enabling us to better serve our community. We are profoundly grateful for your belief in our mission and your commitment to fostering positive change. Together, we look forward to continuing this journey, creating even greater impact and strengthening the fabric of our community.
OUR AIMS
CITIZENSHIP
Promoting active participation and community involvement through inclusive events, activities and initiatives at CCCG.
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ENGAGEMENT
Fostering connections and social cohesion among residents through diverse activities and collaborative projects.
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LEARNING
Providing opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and lifelong learning experiences within our vibrant community hub.
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OUR PURPOSE
Create a vibrant and inclusive space in Coatbridge where individuals and families can come together for engaging activities, support, and connection.
THE VISION
As part of our strategic growth plan for 2025, CCCG aims to enhance its impact through substantial growth and development. With the support of a £70,000 grant from the Postcode Lottery Fund, we will introduce new health and wellness groups, improve our building, and expand activities and community events. We have also begun work on transforming a derelict space into an onsite community garden, creating a vibrant, green space for all to enjoy.
As we look to the future, we remain committed to our purpose; to create a community led and inclusive space in North Lanarkshire where individuals and families can come together for engaging activities, support, and social connection.