PLANS to build a new community centre in Shinfield have been hailed as ‘fantastic news’.
The project has been mooted for a number of years, with residents consulted on designs and proposals by the parish council.
Last month, Wokingham Borough Council’s planning committee approved the plans, which will see the parish hall redeveloped and the former Royal British Legion building turned into a new focal point for the community.
The new community centre will provide a large space for activities and events, a new café, meeting rooms, library facilities, a bespoke children’s space, and an enclosed garden area.
The project is a joint venture between Shinfield Parish Council and Wokingham Borough Council and is situated off School Green, creating a focal point for the community.
The parish council held a design competition earlier this year for the design of the new building. Councillors wanted to ensure local residents had a community centre that was both innovative and bespoke.
AOC Architects won the competition, and have been working closely with the parish and borough councils on the final design.
“This is fantastic news. We can now get on with building this facility which will be a huge benefit to our community. I look forward to the opening in 2021,” said Andrew Grimes, leader of Shinfield Parish Council.
Mark Redfearn, head of localities for Wokingham Borough Council, added: “It is wonderful to be working so closely with Shinfield Parish Council to deliver this essential infrastructure for the new communities that we are creating.
“I’m certain this iconic new community centre will be used for a wide variety of activities and events by local residents for a long time to come.”
Details of the designs for the new centre can be found on the council’s website www.wokingham.gov.uk by searching for planning application 191387.
