Spalding Monkshouse Pavilion moves step closer to becoming community hub

A fully functioning community hub is one step closer for a ‘disadvantaged’ area of Spalding after key talks.

Coun Stephen Timewell recently launched a bid to improve the Monkshouse Pavilion for residents, who he feels have a lack of facilities to use.

Coun Timewell, who represents the Monks House ward on South Holland District Council, has now met with the authority’s assets management team to discuss the plans for the replacement of the building.

“The meeting went well,” he said.

“The assets team were very responsive to my ideas and it was a positive and reassuring outcome.

“They said it was a great idea and that there’s no reason why we can’t move forward.

“They have agreed to undertake further investigations and explore possible funding sources.

“Coun Rodney Grocock also told me that the property had been on the radar for some time and this idea had come at just the right time.

“He agreed that a new facility would be good for the local community.”

Coun Timewell gave a short presentation to the panel, explaining that he wanted to explore funding options to demolish the ageing building and replace it with a new modern facility.

It is hoped that funding to move on with the work could be found through Levelling Up money and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

As part of his vision, the building would incorporate modern changing rooms and showers for the football teams but would also include meeting rooms to be used as a community hub and youth centre.

He also hopes that the pavilion could be made available for private hire.

Coun Timewell, who is also organising the revived Spalding Flower Parade, says he is keen to be involved with community projects, along with leisure and culture schemes as part of his council work.

He added: “ I believe that the area is disadvantaged when it comes to community facilities.

“If I can pull this project off, it will be a huge asset for the local residents.

“It must involve the younger generation and provide a facility that can be accessed by everyone.”