Villagers are being asked to come forward and save a vital community centre.

Budget cuts facing Kirklees Council means they are no longer able to afford the upkeep of Wooldale Community Centre.

It has been leased to local residents for a peppercorn rent of just £5 a year for many years.

But now the council is having to consider charging an annual rent of £8,500, an increase of 1,700%.

Other options are for the Wooldale Community Association to lease the building but be responsible for all repairs and upkeep, or take over the whole building and run it as a community asset, meaning they will be liable for all maintenance but will not have to pay Kirklees.

The last option is one favoured by the council who have met with village association officials.

Now the details are to be spelled out to a public meeting in the centre on April3.

Wooldale Community Association president Mrs Anne Beaumont said: “Some 35 years ago, the people of Wooldale formed an association and turned the old school into the Wooldale Community Centre.

“It now houses two of our local nurseries, giving children, a great start in life, hosts many clubs and associations including youth groups and dancing classes, and has hosted many fine parties.

Wooldale Community Centre, Robert Lane, Wooldale
Wooldale Community Centre, Robert Lane, Wooldale

“The resources are excellent and here for the village. It is the only community-run building in Yorkshire to have gained the Vision quality standard.

“I don’t think I’ll upset my friends and fellow trustees when I say most of us are getting on a bit, but we are young a heart, community-spirited and passionate about what we have created.

“But we need some new ideas some new blood and some extra energy.

“We have to ensure the future of the centre for the current and next generation and that’s not about trying to extract money from a council who simply don’t have any to give away today.

“Too many people just don’t know what is on their doorstep for them to use and enjoy. We need the people of Wooldale to help us change that and change it quickly”.

The Association meeting is on April 3 at 7pm.

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