Future uncertain for community groups (From Western Telegraph)

Future uncertain for community groups

In a week when community groups have questioned the sale of Pembroke's community centre, the county council has now admitted that it is considering the future of the equivalent facility in Pembroke Dock.

The Coronation Centre, in Upper Meyrick Street, is a focal point for adult education classes.

But this Victorian building has been under scrutiny because of the cost of upgrading it to comply with new disability access rights.

Users have reported that surveyors have visited the building and there was a suggestion that it could be converted into flats.

However the county council says no firm decision has been made and none is expected for some time.

It promised existing users that any decision would not be rushed. "Any decision will address the needs of the centre's existing users and will not be made until after full consultation with them,'' said a spokeswoman.

If the building is sold off, the question, which people will want an answer to is whether an alternative location will be made available for the services it currently provides.

Meanwhile, a playgroup which has met at Pembroke Community Centre for 30 years, has expressed its disappointment that Pembrokeshire County Council chose not to consult it and other community groups about a new meeting room in Pembroke.

When the building is sold later this year, Cylch Meithrin will be offered the opportunity to relocate to a room at the new Gelli Aur School.

But the playgroup says it does not meet its needs. "The room is beautiful but it just isn't practical,'' says mum Fleur Lewis.

The playgroup is currently considering alternative locations.