Rebuilding Whitchurch Civic Centre is 'best option'

Shropshire Council’s cabinet will next week be asked to identify £4m within its capital strategy towards the repair or rebuilding of the centre – and to agree to an urgent ‘needs analysis’ to ensure that its future configuration meets the needs of local people.

The building, in Whitchurch High Street, has been closed since September 2023 – except for the sports/market hall. This was after specialist engineers found that RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) existed across the majority of the complex, and that it has major structural issues.

The money will either be used for:

• A rebuild/redevelopment of the civc centre in accordance with the needs analysis if either Government or external funding can be secured

• A new roof for the centre – and other repairs – if no Government or external funding can be secured.

However, the ‘Save our Civic!’ group has said that, even though it is "delighted" that the council is recommending a positive future for the centre, it doesn't want millions spent on just repairing the roof. Members also argue that it should be run by a community-based not-for-profit organisation rather than the local authorities.

“There has already been extensive consultation and discussion with local residents, and we are confident the council and their consultants will be able to build on this,” said Garry Churchill.

“Within the campaign group, we have considerable relevant professional experience and expertise and we look forward to working with the council and their consultants”.

John Moore, a leading figure in the arts in Shropshire, added that there is now an opportinity ‘to demonstrate ambition’.

“The civic, rebuilt and re-thought, will be not just an arts, cultural and community centre, but will be the catalyst for creating a thriving and sustainable town centre,” said Mr Moore.