Long-awaited plans for a new community centre in West Bridgend should finally move forward in August - five years after the previous centre was demolished.
At a full meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council last week, Dumbarton councillor David McBride reaffirmed the local authority’s support for a replacement community hub - but said that investigation into whether a new build or the use of an existing building would be the most cost-effective way of delivering the plans.
Tireless locals from the West Bridgend Community Hall Development Association have been working since the previous hall was demolished for a replacement.
They plan to run it as a community hub, which will include a cafe, after-school and evening clubs, and activities for all ages.
Their outline proposal also detailed lunch clubs, arts and fitness classes and activities for people with disabilities.
However, the project has been hit by delays, with Councillor McBride admitting he shares residents’ frustration.
Submitting a motion that reaffirmed the local authority’s commitment to the plans, and will see council officers determine whether a new build or existing venue offered the best value, the Labour member said: “Council must demonstrate best value when committing public funds, so prior to committing public funds, council officers must explore whether the church hall which is potentially up for sale and which has accessible access could meet the organisation’s needs.
“This could mean that the facility is available a lot quicker and at a significantly lower cost than a new build.
“This council requests a further report in August that highlights any issues so that this council can make an informed decision that demonstrates best value.”
He continued: “There is a degree of frustration from within the West Bridgend group, and I shared some of that frustration as there has been so little progress over the last five years.
“This group has worked hard and has achieved every step asked of them. I don’t see this motion as a stalling motion, I hope we can reiterate our support and commitment for West Bridgend and seek funding where appropriate, not for build costs but for fit-out costs.
“I’ll be meeting the group and inviting senior officers to attend, and in August I anticipate we’ll have a proposal for the way forward to allow the community group to realise the potential for
the area.”
Councillor McBride’s motion was unanimously agreed.
