WORK is under way on a long-awaited community centre in Beggarwood.

As building work for the new Beggarwood Community Centre is well under way, with the facility set to open its doors to residents this autumn, people are being asked how they would like to see the centre used.

The centre, which has been designed to blend in with the natural landscape at Beggarwood Park, could have a community café in addition to rooms for meetings, services and events for people of all ages.

The much-needed building is being built with Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council funding of £505,000, received from developer’s contributions. Construction work is taking place throughout the summer months and park visitors are asked to allow for any disruption.

Cabinet member for communities and community safety at the borough council, Cllr Simon Bound said: “The opening of the new Beggarwood Community Centre is highly anticipated among local residents.

“The council is delighted to see progress being made on the building and everybody is looking forward to seeing what the centre has to offer local people.

“I hope the community will use the centre for all types of activities – from toddler groups and children’s parties, to keep-fit and clubs for older people.

“Anybody who is interested in having their say on how the facility is managed can become a trustee.”

Hatch Warren and Beggarwood Community Association will be responsible for the running of the centre and are appealing for volunteers to help.

Trustees are needed to join the association to manage the new centre, which will be run by the willing volunteers on a daily basis.

In anyone is interested in becoming a trustee or a volunteer at the association they should contact Hatch Warren and Beggarwood Community Association on 01256 811262 or email office@hatchwarren.org.