The Association was formed in 1998 by local residents to try to buy and run the old Sunningmead School as a Community Centre. An extensive local survey revealed huge support for the project (rather than further housing development) due to a total lack of social, educational, youth, elderly or family facilities in the area (not even a local pub or café!).

The project won the support of Mid Devon Social Services, Tiverton Age Concern, East Devon College, Wilcombe Primary School, Tiverton Community Youth Services, Tiverton Town Council, Tiverton Age Concern and the Community Council of Devon.

The Association raised over a quarter of a million pounds in under a year through fundraising and a successful Lottery Fund application. The school and grounds were bought from Devon County Council. The building was converted and refurbished. A caretaker and part-time manager were employed. A further 3-year Lottery (Community Fund) grant in 2001 enabled the employment of an Administrator. Subsequent funding support from the County and District Councils has enabled the employment of a small team of part-time youth workers.

Sunningmead Community Association works to develop and promote the Community Centre and its activities and to maintain its financial security. The Association has a growing membership. It has a democratic structure and a Management Committee of Trustees, elected annually at an Annual General Meeting, of 10 members and 3 officers, which meets every six weeks.

• To provide a Community Centre which meets the identified needs of residents of Cranmore Ward, Tiverton.
• To involve and provide activities for people of all ages, ability, sex, race and creed without discrimination.
• To involve large numbers of local volunteers (of all ages) in the management and running of the Centre and its activities.
• To provide a building and grounds that are disabled friendly, safe and well maintained.
  
• To provide a range of social, creative, educational, sports and recreational activities.
• To form partnerships with other organisations, for reciprocal benefit, that will provide activities and services beneficial to the community.
• To enhance the lives of local people of all ages, building community spirit, reducing anti-social behaviour and social isolation, increasing skills, self-esteem and social interaction.