Senior councillors have backed a business plan which could help bring a much-needed community centre to Warwick.

Warwick District Council has already thrown its support behind the Packmores Community Centre, which has been in the works for the best part of two decades.

At this week's cabinet meeting, members unanimously backed a business plan for the new building, which is to be built near Priory Pools.

Since 2007 the Packmores community has received community support services from a repurposed laundry space at Sussex Court Flats.

But now a more sustainable base is sought, with the business case saying it will serve "long standing needs within the Packmores area of Warwick".

"The existing Packmores Centre at Sussex Court, housed in a converted laundry, lacks the space and amenities necessary to meet the diverse and growing needs of the local community," the business case said. 

"Its limitations highlight the urgency for a larger and more functional facility capable of providing essential services, supporting local activities, and fostering community engagement. 

"The primary aim of this Business Case is to gather support for the development of a new purpose-built community centre in the Packmores area, which includes securing the appropriate site and necessary funding."

From left - Cllr Jim Sinnott, Cllr Simon Pargetter, PAC Secretary Carol Gough, Reeva Beehan, Cllr John Holland, PAC Treasurer Mandy Burford, Nic Ruch and Debbie Behan (image supplied)

Now the business case has been approved, a planning application can now be submitted for the development. It is expected to come forward this summer.

Once planning approval is granted, fundraising can begin, with the project expected to cost around £2 million.

"It is likely that a new community centre will cost in the region of £2m," a council report said. 

"Funds will need to be raised from a range of sources including Warwickshire County Council who have indicated that such a scheme may attract funding from their Social Fabric scheme. 

"However, to raise funding, there needs to be a clear proposition in terms of a business case and in terms of a proposed facility. 

"This needs a site to be identified and the early stages of a RIBA scheme to illustrate what can be provided. 

"Without this there is no scheme for which to seek funding. 

"The business case attached to this report provides that information and the basis for now seeking planning permission."

Speaking at this week's cabinet meeting, Conservative group leader Cllr Andrew Day said: "These facilities are absolutely essential for community life and are well overdue."

Cllr Jim Sinnott added: "I know on the ground the community are very excited and they want to see progress, I want to see progress, and I know everybody in this room wants to see progress."