The long-vacant Harefield Community Centre in Southampton could finally see a new lease of life, though its transition to new ownership has sparked significant local debate. The facility, situated on Yeovil Chase, has sat empty for over 15 years, with residents calling for answers regarding its future.
Southampton City Council originally transferred the site to the West Itchen Community Trust for £1 as part of a programme to bring community buildings into local use. However, the agreement did not include a clause allowing the council to buy the property back. The trust has since sold the site to Bajar Property for £300,000, which has subsequently transferred the centre to MAUR, an Islamic education charity.
The change in ownership has led to a petition titled ‘Stop the construction of an Islamic centre on Harefield community centre site,’ which had gathered 934 signatures by late March 2026. Local residents have expressed concern that the building, which once served the entire neighbourhood, may no longer be available for general community use.
During a full council meeting on 25 March 2026, local advocate Gerard Hales criticised the authority for its handling of the site, noting that it had become a target for vandalism and illegal entry while sitting derelict. In response, Labour Cabinet Member for Communities and Leisure, Cllr Toqeer Kataria, stated that the future of the building “looks good” and mentioned that the new owners intend to focus on promoting community wellbeing and supporting young people.
Any plans to restrict the centre to specific groups would require a change to its current planning permission, as the site is currently required to remain open to the whole community. Any such application would be subject to a formal process where residents can share their views.
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