How a community’s love and determination saved the Carlton Club

It was the fight of a lifetime for a place that has given lifetimes of memories.

For over a century, the Carlton Social & Bowling Club in Whalley Range has been a refuge for music lovers, artists and good neighbours—a place where generations danced, laughed, and connected. But just weeks ago, this cherished institution faced the unthinkable: an eviction notice that threatened to tear it away from the community it had served for 111 years.

Yet, against all odds, the people won. In a stunning turn of events, the club’s future has been secured, thanks to bold action, relentless determination and a groundswell of public support.

As of November 25th, 2024, the eviction has been stopped, the club’s shareholding restored, and new leadership installed to protect what so many thought would be lost forever.

This is an amazing victory for the local community, the kind of triumph that reminds us why we fight to save the places that matter most.

The Carlton Club is saved

The road to this victory was anything but smooth. Three months ago, the Carlton Club faced a dire situation.

Despite its transformation from a run-down facility into a buzzing hub under its Community Interest Company (CIC) structure, the Building Company—its landlord—served an eviction notice, signalling a stalemate.

Mediation efforts were met with silence, and regulatory complaints about the misappropriation of the club’s shares went unanswered.

With no viable options left, the club’s leadership, led by Acting Chair Justin Anderson, took decisive action.

“The Carlton Club is an irreplaceable community asset—we couldn’t let it be destroyed.

“The incredible strength of feeling and support for the Save Our Club campaign is a clear mandate for action.

“Thousands of people benefit from the Club each year, how can a handful of private individuals, most of them with no connection to the Club, decide its future?” Anderson said.

Leveraging the Building Company’s own articles, they restored the club’s rightful directors, convened an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM), and successfully reclaimed the club’s historic shareholding.

The meeting also saw the appointment of new directors, Donna Bradshaw and Joy Wales, who pledged to work constructively toward a long-term lease for the club. The result? The eviction notice was stopped, and for the first time in months, the future looks bright.

A historic institution

Founded in 1913, the Carlton Club has long been more than just a social club—it’s a vital thread in the fabric of Whalley Range.

In 2019, the club transitioned into a CIC, expanding its reach and offerings.

From live music and arts events to yoga classes and community gardening, it has become a cultural cornerstone. With over 1,000 members and a top ranking on event platform Skiddle, the Carlton Club is thriving.

Yet, despite its success, the club’s future was jeopardised by shifting priorities within the Building Company.

Allegations of shareholder mismanagement and aggressive tactics like lock changes highlighted the strained relationship between the club and its landlord.

The public response to the threat was overwhelming. The “Save Our Club” campaign raised over £33,000 in legal funds through crowdfunding, with nearly 7,500 petition signatures. High-profile supporters like Manchester’s nighttime economy advisor Sacha Lord, music producer Mr Scruff, and MP Afzal Khan amplified the club’s plight.

Even in the darkest moments, the club never stopped fighting. “We’ve been here before, with multiple failed discussions, but this time it had to be different,” Justin said. And it was.

What Comes Next for the Carlton Club

While the eviction threat has passed, there’s still work to be done. Legal and administrative hurdles remain, and the club is bracing for potential challenges from former directors. Nevertheless, the new leadership is committed to securing a long-term lease and continuing the club’s mission.

Councillor Angeliki Stogia captured the stakes perfectly: “The Carlton Club is central to the social, cultural, and environmental well-being of our community. Its survival is essential.”

For now, the Carlton Club celebrates a hard-won victory. As discussions with the Building Company progress, the club remains open, offering its usual lineup of live music, arts events, and community activities.

This story isn’t just about saving a building—it’s about the power of collective action. Thousands came together to protect a place that means so much to so many, proving that community spirit is alive and well in Whalley Range.

How you can help the Carlton Club

Why not stop by for a drink, a dance, or a show. After all, the Carlton Club is here to stay.

Find them at Rowan Lodge, 113 Carlton Road, Whalley Range, Manchester M16 8BE.