About Us
A Welcoming Space With a Rich History
At Coundon and Leeholme Community Centre, we’re proud to be at the heart of our local community — a place where people of all ages can gather, learn, celebrate, and support one another.
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Originally opened in 1957 as Leasingthorne Colliery Welfare Hall, the centre was built using funds donated from miners’ wages. It quickly became a hub for weddings, dances, and community events, forming lifelong memories for generations of local families.
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In 2012, when the hall faced closure, a dedicated group of volunteers stepped in to save it. Today, we continue to run the centre as a non-profit, self funding charitable organisation (Charity No. 1155072), maintaining the same spirit of community, support, and togetherness that inspired its creation over 65 years ago.
Our Mission
We exist to provide affordable, accessible activities and events that improve the wellbeing of our local residents
Especially those who may feel isolated or find other venues inaccessible. From toddlers to seniors, there’s something here for everyone.
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Our approach is community-first:
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We listen to what people want through forums and surveys.
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We partner with local organisations like Wellbeing for Life, Age UK Durham, and Durham County Council.
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We hope to offer free training, particularly in digital skills, to help people stay connected and confident.
What Makes Us Unique
Tradition, Warmth, and Local Spirit
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Preserved History: Our building has changed very little since 1957. In fact, we’ve been chosen by Beamish Museum as the model for their 1950s village.
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Genuine Warmth: First-time visitors almost always return. Our friendly atmosphere is something we’re known for.
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Local Spirit: Run by volunteers, for the community. Everything we do is rooted in care, tradition, and belonging.
Whether you're looking for a venue to host your event, a regular group to join, or just a cuppa and a chat, you’ll always find a warm welcome at Coundon and Leeholme Community Centre.
