THE long-term future of a popular community centre has been secured after the committee of volunteers and trustees that run it agreed a new lease.

Swindon Council recently agreed terms on a new 40-year lease with the trustees of Coleview Community Centre to enable them to build on their success in making the venue a hub for local people.

The community centre, which is located in Towcester Road, has been open since 1980 and has a thriving membership of 3,000-plus members within its catchment area.

A £600,000 pre-school together with substantial additional parking was added to the site almost four years ago, approved by the committee and trustees and funded from the centre’s own funds.

The venue also has a number of activities running throughout the week.

The signing of the lease is one of the first in a series of agreements that will see virtually all the council’s community facilities run by volunteers.

Community Centre spokesman Ian Payne stated that they were delighted at having secured the new long-term lease as it would consolidate future and recent investment in the centre.

That includes the total refurbishment of both its function halls to a high specification so that they can provide facilities for weddings, parties, funerals at very competitive prices.

Councillor Mike Bawden, Swindon Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Projects and Transformation, said: “I am delighted we have managed to agree a new long-term lease with the committee and trustees and I wish them continued success.”

Anyone who would like more information about Coleview Community Centre should call 01793 824780, email info@coleviewcommunitycentre.org.uk or visit their website www.coleviewcommunitycentre.org.uk.