A new centre is to be provided for a community group after their home was destroyed in a fire in 2013.

The Somali Bravanese Welfare Association (SBWA) has been operating out of Barnet Houe since their centre in Coppetts Road was destroyed in a fire in June 2013.

Now planning permission has been granted after a public consultation for a new centre to be built in Tarling Road, East Finchley, which will then be open from summer 2018.

The group has provided information and support for the Somali Bravanese community in Barnet, including help for refugees and asylum seekers, for the last 20 years.

Mr Abubakar Ali, chair of the SBWA, said: "The users of the SBWA remain committed to working with all of our fellow Barnet communities, as we deliver services for the borough's children, young people, older people and all other users.”

Mr Ali also went on to thank Barnet Council for their commitment to rebuilding the centre.

Leader of Barnet Council Cllr Richard Cornelius said: “It’s four years since the fire that sadly destroyed Coppetts Road Community Centre, which was used by the Somali Bravanese Welfare Association and others.

"We’re marking this anniversary by reaffirming our support to the SBWA and the work they do in the community, which is particularly important at the present time."

Construction will begin in autumn this year on the new centre.