A popular community centre that has played a key role in the cultural life of the borough is in talks with the council over its future.

The West Indian Cultural Centre in Hornsey has been struggling to make ends meet after its government grant was axed several years ago, leaving it entirely dependent on donations, fundraising activity and rent.

The 40-year-old cultural centre, in Clarendon Road, helped to provide a focus for the community following riots in the 1980s and has since become a vital hub for a range of events and services.

But the high running costs of the building, which is falling into disrepair, mean the centre has had to cut some of the services it offers, including counselling and day care for the elderly.

A faulty elevator means many of the older local residents can no longer attend the free weekly elderly lunch club, which is held on the first floor.

The centre’s trustees are now hoping to secure backing from the council for a major expansion that would boost its coffers and ensure it remains open.

Redevelopment plans could see 15 stories added to the building, providing homes for 150 people and an extra 16,000sq ft of communal space.

Carmen Lomotey from the centre said: “The development will present the organisation with an updated and modernised building that has much lower maintenance costs and a higher core income from rent.

“The organisation would have a more stable base from which planned activities and events can be launched. Uncertainty will be minimised and planning maximised.

“Our aim of providing sustainable community services would be boosted as letting income, donations, event income, would be used to support our various committees grow in strength and effectiveness.”

The board of trustees and developers presented the plans to Haringey Council at a pre-application hearing on Friday, July 13.

Stewart Wellington, who is working with the cultural centre and the redevelopment team, said: “We had an encouraging meeting and were pleased that the council recognise there is an innovative and cost-neutral solution to save the centre and transform it in to a landmark building and essential community hub.

“The dialogue has begun, and we look forward to progressing positively with the council, to help ensure the future of this essential Windrusher-created centre and generate much needed community space and housing.”