Dene Valley, Wellesbourne project update

Stratford-on-Avon District Council's Cabinet today, Monday 6 October, has unanimously agreed to recommend to Full Council to withdraw the offer of a grant of up to £2.5m to Wellesbourne Parish Council for a Leisure & Community Centre.  

"This project first saw the light of day some seven years ago when the concept of a Village Hall for Wellesbourne was first conceived.  Since that time the project has waxed and waned through many concepts.  However a lot has happened since then, not least the current national and international economic crisis," says Cllr Chris Williams, Community Services Portfolio Holder.  

"Building costs have risen and continue to rise, businesses face an uncertain future with many experiencing a downturn in revenue - we are all facing an uncertain future.  Now is not the time to commit this sort of capital, we have to be prudent.   

"Local ward members and the Parish Council have worked diligently in support of this project, but it is a fact that the economic climate has significantly changed since this project was first agreed in principle and we have to consider its impact upon Council finances.  I know a decision like this will not please everyone but we cannot make an investment like this with the present economic climate."    

Three years ago, the Executive approved supporting the project with a grant of £2.5m, subject to a feasibility study for a community and leisure facility in Wellesbourne.