PLANS to transform a former school into a multi-purpose community centre have been given the go-ahead by Warrington’s planning chief.
The former Fairfield CE Primary School – which closed at the end of the summer term when it relocated to new buildings in St Elphin’s Park – will take on a new life with a range of facilities including library, IT suite, Mencap learning centre, training café and nursery provision.
A number of nearby residents expressed concern that the development would result in late night noise and disruption, vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
But members of the borough’s development control committee decided there was no evidence to support such suggestions.
The buildings in Fairfield Street are owned by Warrington Church of England Education Trust, which is committed to a continuing community use for the site.l
A steering group has been set up to involve local people in the future use of the building
Scouts, a youth club, heath facilities, bingo, adult learning, Citizen’s Advice Bureau and toddlers’ groups have all been suggested.
Hours of use of the building will be restricted to 8am-10pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 10.30pm on Saturdays and 10am to 6pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays to minimise any possible problems for nearby residents.
Planners believe the scheme will have considerable benefits for the local community by helping encourage various social activities.
