New community centre under threat

Managers of a new community centre say its future may be under threat before it has even opened.

Paul Dickenson, the centre chairman, said the Osmaston Park facility has to be run by volunteers, but not many people have come forward.

The centre is part of a £1m facelift for the park which includes new sports facilities and improved paths.

The building will include a community cafe with indoor and outdoor seating, a community hall and garden.

'Bad press'

Mr Dickenson, who has campaigned for the regeneration of the park, said local people should volunteer and help make the project a success.

"We have a brand new park. It's very enjoyable and pleasant to be in but there are no facilities, so this [the centre] is the next stage we've campaigned for over the last three years.

"There's a lot of pressure because Osmaston... has always been put down.

"There's always been bad press about the area but it isn't a bad area, it's a good area and it's time the local people came forward and helped support groups like ourselves," he said.

The centre, which is expected to be able to hold 200 people for events, should be open by the end of August.

The building is being leased from the city council for 25 years, but if no one volunteers it will be handed back to the council.