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Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council has been seeking interest from others in taking over the running of both Stockingford and Keresley Community Centres.

With an offer for Stockingford already secured, the Council has now confirmed it is undertaking further engagement with those who have expressed an interest in running Keresley, too.

Details of expressions of interest received were reported to the Council’s ruling Cabinet on Wednesday (7 December). Now officers will continue to work with the three applicants whose business cases have been scored highest.

The engagement will seek clarification on the submitted business plans and ensure that the best offer for the community is obtained.

A commitment of £55,000 capital funding has been agreed by the Council to support any improvement works required at the centre.

Once all processes are complete, a lease agreement will be prepared with a view to handing over the day to day running of Keresley Community Centre on 1 April 2023.

Cllr Sam Croft, Portfolio Holder for Finance and Corporate Services, said:

“We believe these communities know best how to manage their assets. There has been a great deal of interest in Keresley Community Centre, its future looks very bright indeed, and a huge amount of work has been done.

“We are now in a position to enter the final stage of this work. This report gives authority for our officers to go back to the top three bidders in time to find the best way forward by 1 April next year.

“Funds will be made available to ensure we hand over the building in good shape, and there will be provision for the existing groups who use the centre.”

Details of each of the successful bidding organisations will be announced in 2023.