We headed down to Ocean Terminal to get a look at the Living Memory Association’s (LMA) ‘Wee Hub’ after it opened earlier this month.
The space opened earlier this week on the ground and first floor of the now vacant Debenhams unit.
The owners of Ocean Terminal approached LMA several months ago and pitched to them the idea of taking over the space.
LMA jumped at the chance to be able to create a free to use space for creatives, youth groups and a host of other organisations and individuals.
The result has been a transformation of the old department store into an area that can be used by organisations such as Citadel youth centre or Street Soccer in order to widen their reach and ability to deliver services.
One of the highlights of the move has been that Salle Holyrood Fencing Club have found a space that will allow those at the club to grow the sport.
Keith Cook, who is a British fencing champion and coach, said: “A lot of fencing clubs have been operating out of school gymnasiums and this doesn’t put our athletes in the best position when they are competing against other European clubs that have their own set facilities.
“You need a lot of space for fencing and that is what we have here. We will be able to do outreach work in schools across the capital and then invite them to come to the club. There will be ample space to be able to welcome newcomers and for more experienced members.
“Fencing should be for everyone and we want to make it as accessible as possible regardless of peoples background. I grew up in Pilton when I was younger and fencing has been massive for me.
“A number of skills are very transferable and fencing will teach young people vital life skills that will be of immense benefit as they progress through life.”
Miles Tubb, project coordinator of The Living Memory Association, said that the Wee Hub will provide a lifeline to community groups and individuals on the back of the Covid-19 pandemic.
He says that although the hub is temporary, it will act as a “flexible space” for organisations to meet their service needs.
Whilst giving a tour of the space, he pointed out an amazing dance area that can be used by groups to perform a show or to rehearse.
Alongside this was a scooter racing track with a podium placed next to it.
Sikh Sanjog have also created mesmerising murals that give an insight into the Sikh community and what they have faced in recent years whether it be Covid or other issues.
The colour this brings is exceptional and brightens up a space that would have been left dark, dingy and abandoned had the owners of the shopping centre not offered it up as a free space and covered amenities like electricity.
As well as this, there is a library area and a knit and natter space that aims to bring together various generations under one roof.
The LMA have pictures from their archives littered across both floors which give an insight into the way Leith used to look and behave.
Street Soccer have also set up home on the ground floor where they will offer three on three street soccer sessions for any interested groups or individuals.
The hub’s potential appears to be limitless and is reminiscent of a living breathing organism that appears to be constantly evolving and changing as local groups come and go.
The first floor will be open to the public and anyone should be able to come in and have a look around.
However the ground floor has been reserved for specific use and those with appointments for the services on that floor will be able to gain access.
Miles said: “Our new community hub provides a much-needed lifeline to groups on the back of Covid that require additional and flexible space to support their needs. Whilst this is a temporary facility for us to use and enjoy, it is fantastic that Ocean Terminal has had the drive and determination to repurpose the unit for the community, rather than leaving it to stand empty.
“We are always looking for organisations or individuals to make use of the space so please do get in touch if you would like to explore the opportunities available here.
“We have had a child minder in using the space with their young kids and have also had others use it as a space to meet and have a coffee.
“The opportunities are really limitless with what to do with this limited space.”
The move by the owners of the shopping centre is argued to be a snapshot of the future as large office space and former shopping units are left vacant as shoppers flock to online retailers.
Michelle Macleod, centre manager at Ocean Terminal said: “As a team we are excited to welcome this incredibly varied mix of sports and arts community groups to the centre.
"As our community opens up again post Covid, these organisations will bring new energy to the centre and create more reasons beyond our current retail and leisure offering for new and existing audiences to come to OT.”
The Hub is keen to hear from organisations across the city who may want to use the space for one-off events and would welcome contact to comhist@googlemail.com
