Community group is told: you’re in charge!

The group was formed to play a key part in a project to re-develop a site off Prospect Street.

Previous attempts by the town council had failed because of problems attracting funding.

The new group – which has named the project the ‘Prospect Plaza’ – features residents and skating enthusiasts with skills from marketing to engineering and funding applications.

It includes local school student Lyra Waters – a GB roller-skating star who first suggested the idea of a community led initiative.

Group spokesman John Whelan told last week’s town council meeting that progress was already being made on several fronts – including applications for potential grant funding and a review of the site.

It is estimated the project could cost in excess of £200,000 and the town council has already contributed £50,000.

Mr Whelan stressed the group was keen to build on the work already undertaken by the town council and – in particular – a working group chaired by Coun Matthew Wilkinson and including deputy town clerk Michelle Moss.

He said both Coun Wilkinson and Mrs Moss had played a significant part in helping the group make progress.

However, he admitted the group was concerned that continued town council involvement could undermine efforts to attract grants from outside bodies like the National Lottery and Sport England.

Both organisations have previously stated the scheme would be looked on more favourably if it had a stronger community involvement.

Coun Wilkinson praised the work carried out to-date by the group and proposed the town council should step aside from an active involvement.

His proposal received unanimous support.

Mayor Coun Fiona Martin stressed the council would still be happy to offer advice and support at various stages of the project.

Mr Whelan thanked councillors and promised to keep them updated.