A FURTHER step in an ambitious project to build a new community centre in Princetown was taken recently when a construction company visited the village to discuss building methods for the scheme.
The £800,000 centre would include two large halls, a room for a doctor?s surgery, an IT suite, a commercial kitchen, which could be used for training purposes, and sports facilities. It would be capable of housing the library, the doctor?s surgery and provide a room for the local Credit Union.
The project is being developed by the Princetown Village Centre Steering Group, which is investigating building options, including a timber-framed construction method.
Field worker Judy Pride said three sites were being considered ? the steering group should have the results of a feasibility study examining the most viable site for the new building within the next month.
Using information already gathered by the group, a specification is being made for an architect to draw up detailed plans.
Mrs Pride said: ?It?s moving forward very steadily now, which is good. We are talking to various building companies to look at the options. One we?ve looked at is almost in kit form, where you bring in pre-manufactured sections ? it?s a very quick way of getting a water-tight building up.
?Once we have the site identified we can look at how that will translate with the buildings. You can either go down the traditional route, which is quite expensive, or you can go in a different way and look at pre-fab.?
The steering group is talking to a variety of agencies with regard to funding, including Defra, the National Lottery, the Rural Rennaissance project, West Devon Borough Council, the county council and Community Council of Devon.
Judy said the aim was to provide a multi-use building. For example, the playgroup could be using the hall while mums were doing an IT or commercial health and safety training course.
?The bottom line for this building is we will not even attempt to build it if it isn?t sustaining itself from day one ? it has to generate an income,? said Judy.
She said the Duchy of Cornwall was ?completely supportive? of the scheme.
The community centre project is the result of a consultation exercise in March, attended by more than 300 people.
Mrs Pride said there was a great sense of determination and optimism among people in Princetown towards the scheme.
?It?s a community that?s worked incredibly hard behind the scenes and they deserve that next step up,? she said.
Anyone who would like more information about the community centre should calI High Moorland Community Action on 01822 890732.