A 17-year wait for a new community centre in Warwick looks set to come to an end, with councillors advised to approve planning permission for the development at Priory Pools Park next week.

A new charity has been set up to back the bid for the new Priory Pools Community Centre, with a planning application for the build due to be discussed at next week's Warwick District Council (WDC) planning committee meeting.

The business case for the new £2 million centre has already been supported by the local authority.

And a report due to be discussed by councillors next week recommends the planning application be approved.

"While the proposal would result in the loss of an area of open space, the functional and amenity value of this open space is limited, and its loss would be outweighed by the wider benefits of the development," the report explained.

"These benefits include the enhancement of the existing park through the inclusion of a café, the provision of sport/recreation space within the building and enhancing the sustainability of the community through a much-improved community facility within an accessible location."

The Priory Pools project has received a huge amount of support from local residents, councillors and MP for Warwick and Leamington Matt Western.

The floor plan for the proposed centre (image via planning application)

"Packmores has long been in need of a new community centre, and I am proud to support this proposal," he wrote.

"Community centres across Warwick provide services which are invaluable to nearby residents.

"Whether it is offering support with a wide range of issues, a warm space or activities to bring the community together, an area is a better place for having a suitable community centre.

"I have witnessed first-hand the incredible work that goes into local community centres and the way they can provide a lifeline to so many people in that community.

"The area is one of the most deprived in our town and the community deserves this investment which I have no doubt will be much used and valued. I hope this application is passed and the people of Packmores get this asset they rightly deserve."

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 application hoping to see two blocks of garages off Sussex Court demolished to make way for the single-storey building.

"Since 2007 the Packmores community has received community support services from a repurposed ex-laundry space at Sussex Court Flats, close to this new proposed site," the planning application explained. 

"The new, purpose-built facility at the centre of the community it currently serves, would be beneficial to continue and carry out and further develop their important community work. 

"Locating the new facility in the heart of the Packmores area offers several benefits, including proximity to local residents, accessibility, and the ability to support mental health and well-being through access to green space and community-based events. 

"The proposed facility aims to address identified needs and enhance community wellbeing by providing a range of much-needed accessible and inclusive services in a central location."

The centre will feature a large multi-purpose hall, two interview rooms, a group room, two servery's, a café, pantry space, reception and toilets. 

Plans state the design is "modern and interesting" to create an "exciting and welcoming sight" that encourages the local residents to use the centre.

The centre will be run by a new Charitable Incorporated Organisation (Priory Pools Community Centre) in partnership with The Gap Warwick, "allowing the important work already being undertaken from the existing community centre to continue, while adding additional services for the community".  

Numerous notices of support have now been submitted for the application.

Once planning approval is granted, fundraising can begin.

Councillors will vote on the application on Thursday 12 December.

See the full council report here.