£360k revamp plan for old Darlaston Rec centre
More than £360,000 is being sought to spruce up an outdated recreation centre, under moves which could see a bowling green restored.
The Darlaston Community Association sports and social recreation ground is being lined up for a revamp to provide more facilities and bring it up to standard.
A full business plan is being drawn up by a new-look DCA board, which has now submitted a request for funding from Walsall Council.
Members of the decision-making Cabinet will meet on Wednesday to discuss support for an investment in the site, known as Darlaston Rec, in Hall Street, Rough Hay.
It has been estimated around £255,750 is needed to carry out essential works at the main building, which includes a full rewire, kitchen upgrade, better heating and resurfacing the pathway.
Around £32,445 is needed to the bowling green, which is not currently maintained, and to carry out some further ground maintenance works.
The trustees also believe another £73,000 could be invested in refurbishing the shower block and replace flooring.
A report to councillors, by council area manager for Darlaston, Lyndon Parkes, said: "The facility is currently underutilised and requires investment to bring it up to the standard necessary for local residents to access services and activities.
"The local area has traditionally suffered with high levels of unemployment, health inequality and educational attainment.
"The building and the grounds need investment to bring them up to an acceptable standard.
"DCA has informed council officers that income from the site is primarily from football pitch hire, some function room hire and use of the bar area a few evenings each week."
Councillors Chris and Paul Bott, who represent Darlaston South, and are association trustees.
They said they wanted to keep young people off the streets and offer more such as discos and youth clubs.
When there were previous fears the Darlaston Rec could be closed a near-700 name petition was collected.
Councillor Bott said: "We are urging them to invest into this for the community.
"It is one of the most deprived areas in the Walsall borough. There is nothing at all in this estate.
"The facilities are very poor, every aspect of the site needs that money invested in it. The building isn't fit for purpose.
"If Walsall Council are going to invest it needs a robust business plan.
"The trustees have started to put in place a proper business plan."
