Community groups and residents are being invited to give their views on the future use of Lutterell Hall.
Rushcliffe Borough Council is encouraging all to complete a consultation on the West Bridgford facility or in person at Rushcliffe Community Contact Centre, Rushcliffe Arena or at Lutterell Hall when using the hall, by Friday November 29 before options are assessed next year.
The facility has been operated as a community hall by Rushcliffe Borough Council for the last 40 years and underwent extensive refurbishment in 2010 at a cost of £177,000.
Usage has fallen over recent years with the Main Hall booked just 33% of the available time from 9am to 10pm each day between April 2018 and March 2019. A number of regular groups have left the facility because it is not fit for their purpose and the building also falls below energy efficiency standards.
The building is in need of further repairs expecting to cost around £275,000 such as new heating, toilets and roofing.
Earlier this year, Nottinghamshire Police announced their intention to sell the Police Station next to Lutterell Hall. This combined with the facility’s need to be renovated, prompted the Council to consider whether to explore options for the site or to keep the building for future community use.
The Authority now wishes to hear views through the consultation if the Hall should be kept and increase Council Tax to assist its renovation, transfer it to a third party such as a community group or sell the hall and reinvest the income raised in the community.
The consultation process has been independently checked and verified by The Campaign Company, an official partner of the Consultation Institute.
Leader of the Council Cllr Simon Robinson said: “We welcome views from all stakeholders across the community on the Hall.
“We know groups and individuals feel strongly on its future use. The Council has a responsibility to ensure it delivers the best use for the community, is a facility fit for purpose and best value for the taxpayer.
“This consultation is part of that check and your responses to the survey will help inform any future decision.
“It’s important everyone has their say so next year we can at the same time assess this in line with any group who has voiced interest in its management or long-term lease.”
In September expressions of interest were invited to establish the level of community group interest in running the facility, that are also welcomed until November 29 by visiting www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/lutterellhall
Viewings are available by emailing lutterellhall@rushcliffe.gov.uk or calling 0115 981 9911 when advice on any initial application can also be discussed.
