COUNCILLORS are set to rubber-stamp major plans to refurbish a community centre in Wrexham.

Council leader Aled Roberts said the new Acton Resource Centre, which will be based where the current community centre is, should be a “first class facility for Acton”.

Libraries officer from Wrexham Council, Dylan Hughes said it had been a ‘longstanding project’ since about 2004.

An £800,000 centre had originally been planned on Rhosnesni playing field in Wrexham but there was widespread objection because of the loss of green space.

Instead it was agreed to revamp the community centre on Overton Way with the same funds which have been kept aside.

Acton community councillors have also contributed about £70,000 to the pot.

Mr Hughes said: “It needs to be a centre for the whole community and we are looking at options for a youth and children’s provision.

“We look to develop on the Acton Community Centre site and refurbish and extend the current building, meeting space and training facilities to make a hub for the community.

“We have had full support from local representatives and local groups.

“If approved I would anticipate it would be ready by late 2012.”

Acton councillor Geoff Lowe said: “This scheme is far more acceptable to the community than the previous scheme to put a stand alone youth centre on the fields.

“It’s great news for the community and will be multi-purpose which is excellent.
“I’m confident my colleagues will make the right decision on Tuesday.”

Cllr Lowe expects the centre will provide a drop in centre for young people, a space for local police, children’s playgroup facilities and where training course could be run.