FUNDING to extend a Basingstoke community centre has been called “extremely welcome news” by a ward councillor.

Hampshire County Council recently approved a grant of £25,000 to the Westside Community Association in South Ham to extend and refurbish the Russell Howard Pavilion, in Paddock Road.

The grant was approved by executive member for culture, recreation and countryside at the county council, Cllr Andrew Gibson at his recent decision day meeting.

The money will go towards providing additional space at the community centre and make it a safer area for youngsters in the area to use.

The additional funds have been welcomed by ward councillor, Cllr Colin Regan.

He said: “It is very welcome that we have been given the funding. The building is over 40 years old and is starting to show its age, so this money will help refurbish it, have better CCTV installed and as part of the proposed plans the roof will be redesigned to deter people climbing up there.”

Cllr Regan added: “I have seen an outline plan but we need facilities in South Ham where youngsters can go and take part in different activities.”

As well as the grant received from the county council, the community association has also put in £18,000 of its own funds to the project and has secured £130,500 from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

Cllr Gibson said: “In the past two years we’ve awarded 34 capital fund grants collectively worth £485,000 for community buildings throughout the county.

“Community groups often lack the financial resources for capital projects, which is why we’re delighted to support the development of the Russell Howard Pavilion. The extension will benefit hundreds of families.”

Work is due to get under way at the start of January next year.

To learn more about the county council’s community buildings capital fund or to apply visit hants.gov.uk/community-buildings-capital-fund.