THE future of a community centre is still up in the air - as hundreds of campaigners call for answers over what’s next for the loved venue.

Danielle Mealing is now one of more than 700 members who have joined a Facebook group, campaigning to keep Laindon Community Centre as a versatile hub, along with its bar. 

The centre is unable to open due to significant repair work and need for investment.

But should the current building be demolished and rebuilt, major concerns have been raised as to whether the future centre will be downsized into a hall - a decision which Kerry Smith, deputy leader of Basildon Council, says is yet to be made.

Council bosses have assured them they are still “absolutely committed” to delivering a fit for purpose community facility in Laindon in some shape or form.

It comes after councillors unanimously backed a call by Tory councillor Jeff Henry, to preserve the site of Laindon Community Centre, keeping it exclusively for the use of a community building.

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Danielle, 32, said: “I do think it would be cheaper to revamp the centre rather than rebuild it, but even so a lot of people are concerned that the new building could be smaller than what’s there already.

“We’ve all became a family, there’s a gym, bar area, an outdoor space, it can be used for events. 

“It also really gives a lifeline to the elderly.

“We just want answers about what’s next. We hope the current facilities including the bar won’t be replaced, and there is worry we’ll be left with a smaller hall instead.”

Although there is no set time frame, the council has vowed to re-open it as soon as government restrictions allow.

Basildon Council leader Gavin Callaghan has previously touted the idea that building a new centre in its place could be on the cards.

Alternatively, the current building could instead face a revamp.

Mr Smith added: "It's very up in the air with Covid and is still early stages, so we don't yet know details about things like the size of the building in the future if it's rebuilt.

"As far as we're concerned, we still need to consider our options. But either way Laindon won't be left without a community centre."

A Basildon Council spokesman, said: “Officers are currently assessing the work that needs to be undertaken in order for the Laindon Community Centre to be opened safety. 

"The council has been dealing with the immediate issues of securing the building to the satisfaction of our insurance company.

“The building is almost 40 years old and requires significant investment relating to compliance, fire safety, roofing/guttering and mechanical and electrical works.

"As a result of the pandemic too, installation of mechanical ventilation in the building is essential in order to make it a safe environment for visitors.

“Our assessments are on-going and once this initial work is complete and a plan has been developed, the council will likely be in a positon to provide an updated report on the centre to committee before the end of March.

“But to be clear, the council remains absolutely committed to delivering a fit for purpose community facility in Laindon, for the benefit of local residents. And we will make sure that any decisions made are in consultation with the local community."