The new trustee of a disused community centre hopes to see it receive a new lease of life.

The Old Barn Youth and Community Association, in Tarling Road, East Finchley, was investigated by the Charity Commission after complaints that people were denied access to it.

The commission issued an order to appoint Mobilise Public Ltd as the new trustee of the centre.

Upon receiving the order, a team entered the centre to change the locks.

Mobilise will now assess the future of the centre, the building’s condition and develop plans to bring it back into use.

Micah Gold, director of Mobilise Public Ltd, said: “It’s great that we can help breathe new life into the Old Barn. It’s the council’s aim that it should again become a hub of community activity.

“I’m keen to hear from anyone who wants to get involved so that the local community can once again be in the driving seat. In the first instance, I’d ask anyone believing they have current membership to get in touch.”

Councillor Richard Cornelius, leader of Barnet Borough Council, said:  "I am very pleased today's move brings us a step closer towards bringing the Old Barn back into community use.  

"We are currently in the very early stages of looking to expand the community facilities on the Tarling Road site. We will of course be speaking to the community and ward members in the near future before we progress any further with the proposals."

People can get in touch with Mobilise about the centre by emailing oldbarn@mobilise.org or by calling 020 8090 4613.