Plans to breathe new life into a cherished community pavilion have received the green light, with councillors approving a comprehensive transformation project that will secure the building's future for generations to come.
Essential Refurbishment Works Approved
At a recent Cabinet meeting, Harborough District Council gave the go-ahead for essential refurbishment and compliance works at Wadkins Pavilion, located in Thurnby and Bushby. This decision ensures the facility remains fit for purpose and continues to serve as a vital hub for ongoing community activities.
Comprehensive Improvement Programme
The ambitious improvement scheme encompasses a wide range of upgrades designed to modernise the pavilion and enhance its usability. Key elements of the project include:
- A complete roof renewal with enhanced insulation
- Essential concrete and structural repairs
- Full window replacement throughout the building
- Drainage system repairs and improvements
- Installation of a new accessible WC facility
- Complete refit and decoration of existing toilets and changing rooms
Securing Long-Term Community Value
The refurbishment project carries an estimated cost of approximately £495,000 and represents a crucial investment in community infrastructure. These works are necessary to ensure the pavilion meets all current statutory requirements while maintaining the highest standards of health and safety for all users.
Beyond immediate compliance, the project aims to secure the long-term longevity of the building, protecting this popular facility for future community use. Upon completion of the works, the council will engage in negotiations with interested parties to secure and enhance the future community use of the facility, ensuring it continues to serve as a valuable resource for local residents and the wider community.
Council Leadership Perspective
Cllr Jim Knight, Harborough District Council's Cabinet lead for Finance Services, emphasised the importance of the investment: "It is important that we undertake these essential refurbishment works to protect this popular building and support its continued use for sport and recreational activities. I am looking forward to seeing Wadkins Pavilion revitalised and ready for many more years of community service."
Community Response and Future Vision
Local organisations have welcomed the approval with enthusiasm. Jonathan Silver, Chairman of Houghton and Thurnby Cricket Club, expressed his delight: "This is extremely good news. As a club we have a widely diverse membership and improving our facilities will enable us to increase that membership to the benefit of all. In addition, we hope that these improvements will encourage the wider local community to use the facilities when cricket is not being played."
A spokesperson for Thurnby and Bushby Parish Council added their support: "We are eager to support Harborough District Council's plans for the refurbishment of the Wadkins Pavilion, which has potential to provide a much-needed space for community, social and sporting groups. The council is also keen to consider future ways of supporting the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of the pavilion in the longer term, including the possibility of eventually assuming ownership of the facility."
Moving Forward with Implementation
With approval secured, Harborough District Council will now initiate a procurement process to identify a suitable contractor for the works. The aim is to commence the refurbishment as soon as possible, minimising disruption while maximising the benefits for the local community.
This significant investment represents a commitment to preserving and enhancing community assets, ensuring that facilities like Wadkins Pavilion continue to serve as focal points for social connection, sporting achievement, and community cohesion in the years ahead.
