A PETITION has been launched as part of a last ditch bid to save a community hub which is facing imminent closure.

The Ironworks in Southend High Street, have launched a petition in a bid to try and get the council’s support to help keep open the “vital” community hub.

This comes after a crowdfunding campaign which was launched last month seeking £120,000 to secure its future failed to raise the required funds.

Now bosses say they don’t have much time left and are calling on help from Southend Council.

A spokesman for the Ironworks said: “We don’t have much time left now before we are due to serve notice on our lease. 

“We really need some help to remain the vital community hub that we have become.

“We have launched a petition, calling for help. We need a conversation with the council about how- together, we can do this.

“Please sign and share this petition. Help us save The Ironworks Southend, for our community and the next generation.”

Its current funding from the UK Government secured by Southend Council as part of the High Street regeneration project, expires on February 9, 2024.

Bosses say they face an imminent threat of closure without additional support.

Since opening the Ironworks around a year ago they have welcomed more than 108,000 individuals through the door.  

They have provided space for 44 charities as well as offering free arts and crafts for children with more than 300 kids participating each week.

A spokesman added: “With Southend Council help, we aim to bridge this one-year gap and position ourselves to apply for larger funding opportunities to develop the other floors in the building which will be the lynch-pin to making this project truly sustainable.

“Although we have had massive support from the community, our GoFundMe is not enough.

“We urgently need the council to support The Ironworks get by, whilst we wait for the funds to come through.”

To sign or view the petition, visit https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/save-the-ironworks