Future of Diss Youth and Community Centre put out to public consultation

Possible plans for Diss Youth and Community Centre have been put out to the public as the town council moves closer to finding a solution for the site.

In late 2023, the centre was closed following the discovery of reinforced aerated autoclave concrete in the building.

Since then, the town council, which owns and manages the building, has been considering options for the Shelfanger Road site.

Now, the authority has released an online survey, as well as hosting drop-in sessions at the town’s Morrisons and in the Market Place.

A council spokeswoman said: “We are considering the current and potential future use of the centre and its other key properties, specifically the town council offices and Diss Sports Ground.

“There are various options available and most require significant investment.

“While grants will be applied for, it is anticipated that the council would have to borrow money to make up any shortfall, which would need to be repaid.

“The town council recognises that it will take some time to consider options and intends to use the next six months to explore those.”

The four options on the survey are either to:

► Repair and refurbish the current building, which could cost between £500,000 and £750,000.

► Construct a new facility on the existing site to include the council offices, costing between £1.5 million and £2.5 million.

► Build a new community centre and council office on the site of Diss Sports Ground, costing between £1.5 million and £3.5 million.

► Sell the community centre site and provide its services through collaboration with existing organisations.

The spokeswoman added: “The town council wants to ensure that the option selected provides facilities and activities that meet the needs of the local community and does not duplicate existing community provision in the town.”

To have your say, go online to diss.gov.uk/diss-youth-community-centre. Alternatively, for a hard copy of the survey, contact the town council on 01379 643848.

The deadline for the consultation deadline is Monday, January 13.