Fight is on to save much loved Hollington Community Centre
The building, in Old Church Road is owned by East Sussex County Council who say it needs significant investment to bring it back into a good state of repair.
The Centre, which opened in 1974 is a registered charity and has been used by generations of people who grew up in Hollington.
It is home for a Table Tennis Club of 70 years , judo (52 years), short mat bowls (40 years) a social section and walking cricket.
The County Council is looking for a local group to take on the lease of the community centre which has been listed as an Asset of Community Value by Hastings Borough Council.
In a published report, it said: “The property is recognised by the council as a community asset but it requires significant capital investment to ensure its long-term sustainability.
“The council cannot undertake the works directly and has no requirement to operate a council service from the property. Therefore, the capital for the works will need to be funded by an external entity and that party will require an appropriate legal interest in the property for a sufficient term.”
Through the bidding process, the council will seek “an appropriate community or voluntary organisation”, which can take on a lease and invest in repairs.
Officers say a successful bidder would need to have a plan for how the property can be put back and kept in a good state of repair. This would be in addition to meeting all other lease obligations.
Local people attended a special meeting at the community centre on Saturday October 31 to discuss plans for its future.
A spokesperson for the community centre said: The building has been neglected and requires major repair work. It is indicated that if there was Lease in place access to funding may become available . At present information on the lease terms and cost, and the repair report are not forthcoming from ESCC. “This is possibly the last Building in Hastings with large enough hall to have community events that isn’t operated by a large organisation.”
The fight to save the centre is being supported by the Hollington councillors. Cllr Will Chapman said: “The centre is recognised as a valued community asset and has served local people for decades, offering a wide range of activities including judo, table tennis, indoor bowls, venue hire for private events, and a social club with a bar. “A special recognition must also go to the dedication of the amazing team of volunteers - their time, commitment, hard work and community spirit have made it possible for local residents of all ages to enjoy the facilities, activities and friendships that the centre provides. "I used to attend this centre as a child, taking part in many of the activities on offer. Hollington Community Centre remains a hugely important community venue, and we cannot afford to lose such a valuable local asset.
"Community centres like this play a vital role in bringing people together, reducing isolation, supporting wellbeing and creating opportunities for people of all ages. I will do everything I can to support efforts to secure its future."