Official opening of Abbots Wood

Press release - 18 September 2007

The official opening of Abbots Wood, Monkmoor took place on Monday 10th September 2007.

Attending the event were Councillor Barbara Craig, Portfolio Holder for Community Services, Councillor Malcom Pate, Leader of Shropshire County Council, Chief Executive Carolyn Downs and Jack Collier Corporate Director for Community Services.

Councillor Barbara Craig, performed the opening ceremony in the presence of service users, guests, parents and carers. The party then took a tour of the new building and had the opportunity to speak to frontline staff and service users who attend the centre.

Councillor Craig said “It gave me great pleasure to open Abbots Wood as not only was I honoured to be asked as a portfolio holder but it was also a special building for me as my sister attends the centre”.

After the tour, Councillor Craig unveiled a plaque to officially open Abbots Wood and was presented with a boquet of flowers.

The event also included activities and demonstrations throughout the day ranging from aromatherapy sessions, a DJ workshop, a laughter therapy group and a presentation from Taking Part (an advocacy group for adults with learning disabililties).

Abbots Wood was built as part of Shropshire County Councils ‘Quality in Communities’ Private Finance Initiative project which has seen 6 new service buildings opening in Shropshire.

The centre provides day opportunities for adults with learning disabilities. It has a café which is open to the community, a physiotherapy room and an IT suite. Meeting rooms are also available.

For further information on about Abbots Wood contact 01743 210900 or visit www.shropshire.gov.uk.

ENDS

For media contact, call Maria Jones, Communications Officer, Community Services on 01743 253881