CONCERNS have been raised over delays to the £200,000 refurbishment of a community centre.

Fearnhead Cross Centre on Insall Road is set for a major revamp, but the project has been hit by setbacks.

The refurbishment, which includes a full rewire, redecoration, a reconfiguration of rooms and a new heating system, comes at a cost of £203,000.

Work was set to begin in February or March, but Poulton-with-Fearnhead Parish Council has received notice that the refurbishment has been delayed ‘despite assurances’ by Warrington Borough Council.

The borough council has not yet appointed a contractor for the project, with work now due to commence in May.

Poulton-with-Fearnhead Parish Council has written to Warrington Borough Council chief executive Steven Broomhead to express ‘extreme concerns’ about the delays and has asked that money earmarked for the project is ringfenced to ensure that work will be completed.

The Warrington Guardian understands that the parish council is awaiting a response from Mr Broomhead.

A spokesman for Warrington Borough Council said: "We are absolutely committed to the refurbishment of the Fearnhead Cross Centre and we are moving forward with the plans.

"We are now carrying out final preparation work to ensure the centre is refurbished to a standard that meets the needs of the community.

"We also have to tender the work to procure an appropriate contractor within budget - we anticipate being able to start on site in May.

"Our officers will be providing weekly updates to the parish council as the work progresses as well as ensuring the works are scheduled to fit in with the community."

It has also revealed that activities and service run from Fearnhead Cross Centre will be transferred to Ian Telfer House on Vulcan Close while work is undertaken.

The centre will close for an estimated 12 weeks while work is completed.