Vauxhall and I

Next month will see the arrival of Vauxhall’s first multi-purpose gay social space.

The John Bull Community Centre – named after the British equivalent of Uncle Sam – is based in a former pub on Tyres Street and opens on 8 November, following 10 months of negotiations.

At a cost of £55,000, local gay entrepreneur Adrian Flack is single-handedly trying to expand queer community facilities in the south London region.

“We have a gay village, but it doesn’t have a heart. Yes, I could’ve opened the place as another club, but there’s a definite need for a focus for our community. Since the press release yesterday, the response has been amazing.

“The opening of the centre will provide the LGBTV and TG with a dedicated community
centre in Vauxhall.”

Host to weekend club night Play Pit, the newly–renovated space will also accommodate self–defence classes, keep fit aerobics, art exhibitions, teaching English as foreign language and private hire parties throughout the rest of the week.

Other facilities include a coffee shop and an internet cafe.