What next for community hall? (From Brentwood Weekly News)

What next for community hall?

7:00am Friday 8th March 2013 in News

A PUBLIC meeting was held by Brentwood Council to discuss the future of a derelict community centre.

Residents were putting forward their views on what should be done with the Hutton Community Centre, in Harrison Close, during the meeting at 7.45pm in St Peter’s Church Hall on Wednesday.

Council bosses have set aside £165,000 funding to be invested into restoring the hall into a hub for the surrounding community again.

Louise McKinlay, council leader and ward member for Hutton North, said the authority is keen to see the building used once again.

Mrs McKinlay said: “We are keen to see the centre once again become a real hub of the community.

“Residents, local organisations and groups want to see the building brought back to life.

“The opportunities are huge and with the money from the council secured, the site has a real future, not to mention it will be far tidier and more attractive.”

Deputy council leader Roger Hirst said they wanted to hear views of residents before making a final decision as ultimately it is them who will be using the building once restored.

Mr Hirst said: “The meeting will provide an opportunity to hear from the community on how they want the centre to be used.

“We know from speaking to residents and interested groups already that there is a real appetite for something special.

“The young, elderly, sports clubs and other organisations will really benefit from it.”

Further discussions are set to take place between the council and other groups about the hall’s future after the public meeting.