Bracknell

Bracknell's MP is demanding urgent talks over the shock closure of the Bracknell Harmans Water community centre.

As the storm of protest among Bracknell residents grows over the loss of their social club and community centre, Tory MP Andrew McKay is warning the building will become a neighbourhood blight unless action is taken.

Speaking exclusively to the News, he said: "Harmans Water is a very attractive and much sought-after residential area. The centre could rapidly become an eyesore unless urgent action is taken."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council is to launch talks about the future of the site to ensure it does not fall into a dilapidated state.

There will be a public meeting for residents to have their say on what they would like to happen to the site in Ralph's Ride.

The Bracknell building fell foul of the new Disability Discrimination Act.

With two flights of stairs and a building which could not provide a lift - coupled with a rapidly decreasing use and the club facing mounting financial constraints - the centre was forced to shut.

Bracknell Councillor Shelagh Pile is keen to see the club move with the times while remaining a valuable part of the community.

Cllr Pile commented: "We are obviously looking everywhere at the moment, although nothing has been decided. It will depend on the outcome of the public meeting and what the residents want, as it is their club so we need to find out what they want.

"Personally, I would like to see a new community centre as we do need some-where like that for people and groups to meet. If it was on the ground floor I am sure we would get more people in, as it was used a lot."

Bracknell MP Mr McKay wants a complete review of the site. He said: "Inevitably it was a sad day that the community centre and club had to close, particularly as many local residents use it and it has had good numbers in past times there.

"I think we have to look to the future, and as a focal point in Harman's Water it needs revitalising.

"I am in urgent discussions with the council as to what is viable. In a perfect world it would be the complete redevelopment of the site, which would be in the best interests of the residents and also offer very good facilities locally."

This move is also supported by the community association. Its secretary, Barry Brown, said: "I would like to see a new club which could be accessible to all members of the community regardless of their ability or disability - somewhere where all the community can enjoy the facilities.

"If it would be possible to have a new club on the same site that would be great.

There are the local businesses and residents to be considered, but there has been a community centre on that site for more than 30 years."

ic Berkshire ~ Bracknell