ONE of the core projects of the much-lauded Hardie Park community initiative in Stanford-le-Hope has come to an end because of commercial pressures.

The community interest company that runs the park has been praised for many of its projects, one of which was creating the cycle hub in the park, which included a repairs workshop and the resale of donated and refurbished bikes.

However, it has now been decided – after two and a half years – to close the hub because it is no longer viable in the current economy.

A statement from the Friends of Hardie Park says: "We've had two and a half wonderful years of the cycle hub in the park. In that time the project has achieved so much despite the effects of the pandemic.

"We have turned around and sold hundreds of donated bikes and serviced many for avid cyclists in the local area.

"However, it is with great sadness that we have decided to wind down the cycle hub project. Although the cycle hub is ethically wonderful, as a business having saturated the local second hand market, it is sadly not proving financially viable long term without consistent grants and applications for funding.

"Our cycle guru manager, Matt Hill will be with us until June but our bike mechanic Ross left us on 8 April having secured himself a full-time job in the cycle industry. We are sure you'll join us in wishing them both the best of luck moving forward. A full statement from the trustees is available via this link: https://preview.mlsend.com/o3k7q1v9i5

Residents have been advised that if they have any questions regarding the cycle hub closure they should email [email protected].

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Despite that disappointment the park friends have announced they are 'back on track' with cafe opening hours returning between 10am and 3pm with pop-up community food available from 11.

However, they are still looking for help from the local community.

A statement says: "Thank you for your patience over the last month. This situation really highlights how much we need your help, we are always looking for new volunteers. If you have some free time please pop in for a chat or sign up on our online form to get things started. It really is a fun and engaging thing to do for yourself and your community.

"As always, your continued support of the park and it's projects is much appreciated. We are in this together, our community and volunteers are at the heart of Hardie Park."