A petition has been launched to save much-loved community gold mine Feltham Arts Association from proposed council funding cuts.
Located in the heart of Feltham town centre, it is the hub for social activities managed by a small team who put on a wealth of activities, embrace cultures and provide new opportunities for people of all ages in Feltham, Bedfont and Hanworth.
More than 100 people have signed the online petition created by Ruth Wood, Feltham Arts programme development manager, petitioning Hounslow Council to "Save Feltham Arts" from plans to reduce funding to zero within two years.
On the online petition, Ms Woods, said: "For 30 years the London Borough of Hounslow has provided an important grant to Feltham Arts which the charity uses to bring in additional funding to engage over 10,000 Feltham residents annually in a range of projects.
"The charity has always been managed by the council’s Community Partnership Unit (CPU), this important partnership has allowed us to maximise value for money with public funding (and private funding).
"It has further unlocked additional funds precisely because of our key community role.
"We have been advised we are being moved from the Community Partnership Unit to Leisure, our funding will be cut within two years to zero.
"These cuts could come as early as April 2017."
Feltham Arts is supported by a large wave of people in the west of the borough and has been providing everything from fun arts and crafts activities to circus skills for children as well as sewing for the elderly, to the huge annual Feltham Festival jam-packed with fun and entertainment, Hounslow Has Talent as well as the Winters Night Carnival and light's switch on.
The life of the charity which resides in Feltham library on the High Street is now at risk as the council's grant is vital to its survival.
The Arts team want the council to reconsider the funding withdrawal urgently.
Eddie Menday who wants Feltham Arts saved, said: "This silly council are to cut the funding for Feltham Arts which does such important work in the area, both for adults and schools."
Steve Curran, leader of Hounslow Council, said: “The council has been forced to look hard at where we spend our resources, due to significant funding cuts from central government.
"As a result, a number of savings proposals have been put forward for consideration; the first tranche was discussed at the October cabinet and borough council meetings.
"No decision has yet been made on the remaining proposals, which will be considered between now and February 2017."
If you would like to get in touch and tell us why you think Feltham Arts should be saved please email salina.patel@trinitymirror.com
Head here to sign the petition.
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