Council in plan to close centre

A day centre used by scores of people in Bloxwich is set to close within the next 18 months, it emerged today.

Pinfold Rehabilitation Centre, used for physiotherapy and by voluntary groups, has been earmarked to shut. It is looking to relocate users to the Goscote Centre and the Stan Ball Centre.

But there are fears voluntary groups will be left without anywhere to go during the evenings as they cannot afford rent charges elsewhere.

Officials at the council have insisted the building in Field Close, also referred to as the Pinfold Day Service, is outdated and better facilities will be provided.

Kath Wilkinson, chair of the Parkinson's Disease Society, said they currently do not have to pay rent and fear what would happen if they had to move.

Councillor Pete Smith added: "We need assurances that these groups will not be disadvantaged. Those who get free accommodation should continue to receive it."

Councillor Barbara McCracken, cabinet member for social care, health and housing, said: "We are not withdrawing a service - we are improving it and relocating it in a modern, fit for purpose building.