GROUPS interested in managing Toothill’s closed community centre can now submit informal bids.

The venue shut a week before Christmas when the trustees and management committee resigned and handed the keys back to Swindon Borough Council following a breakdown in relations between the committee and the group overseeing its renovation. Now the borough council is actively seeking new management.

Cabinet member for communities and place Mary Martin said: “Toothill Community Centre is a real focal point for local residents and groups and we want to see the building fulfil its potential.

“This building has good facilities and provides a good opportunity for an organisation to come in and deliver something really positive for the local community and benefit residents.”

In a statement the council said it recognised the importance of the centre to people in Toothill and the surrounding area.

“The community centre will offer the successful candidate an ideal base for operations in the heart of this part of Swindon. It also provides the opportunity to make a valuable difference to residents, offering an excellent platform for local engagement and for bringing people and groups together.”

The centre shut after the management fell out with Toothill Big Local, the group responsible for distributing £1m of Big Lottery funding that was awarded eight years ago.

Informal tenders should be submitted in writing to the council by February 28. Interested groups can also be shown around the centre and discuss the lease agreement and other documents with the council. Email the property assets team on property@swindon.gov.uk for more information.