CHARITIES in Bradford are being offered more free space in the city.

An organisation which specialises in creating charity hubs in empty commercial buildings has been given three more floors in Arndale House in Charles Street to help worthy causes keep up their good work.

A number of charities are already operating from the property after taking up the offer the first time round but now more room has become available which is great news, said Cassie Robertson who is the charity co-ordinator for Centric.

The scheme, which featured in the Telegraph & Argus earlier this year, works by buildings being ‘donated’ to Centric – itself a registered charity – when they become empty . Charities are then allowed to use the space free of charge until owners are able to let the room to profit-making concerns.

Miss Robertson said: "After the first article went in the T&A it soon became apparent that there were a lot of people in need of free space in and around Bradford.

" We were very successful in filling the space and we have since been handed a further three floors.

"These are large floors with a range of individual offices on them which are available immediately and are absolutely free. We currently have charities, non-profit organisations and artists that have taken up space with us at Arndale House. There is a great atmosphere and strong sense of community within the building.

"For some charities this has been like a lifeline and has allowed them to save vast amounts of money which in the long term will aid in their growth and development. "

Shelley Black, chief executive officer with Fairweather, a charity that supports vulnerable women and children, praised the scheme.

"‘Being based in the city centre means our service users and volunteers are able to access our service more easily," she said.

" It also means we are more accessible for partner agencies and staff to use the space and it is easier for us to visit others in the community."

Another of the charities already based there is Lillie's Grace - set up by Nicky Hodges-Rhodes, of Greengates, after the death of her four-day-old baby to help other parents with special care babies.

The extra Arndale House space can be used for any charitable activity from admin, as an office or as a training facility. It is free of charge with no rent, rates or utility bills to pay. However, those who want a phone line or WI-FI connection have to pay the cost.

Charities or groups interested in the scheme should contact cassierobertson@centricprojects.org or call her on 01908 667750 ext 205