Hunstanton Community Centre being surveyed for RAAC

Hunstanton Town Council (HTC) has commissioned checks on the building, on Avenue Road, after forming a new group to look at how the building could be improved.

The centre remains open as normal while the work is carried out.

Mark Williamson, chair of its finance and property committee, said: "Hunstanton Town Councillors had, at a meeting, discussed the need to look into the possibility of RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) at the community centre and agreed a survey of the building would be needed as the safety of venue is their main priority.

"A company has now been instructed to carry out the survey and report back their findings as soon as possible. While this is in progress, council members have decided to look at the overall purpose and usage of the site with a vision of making the venue a building that is fully versatile for the people of Hunstanton."

Hunstanton Community Centre (Image: Chris Bishop)

RAAC was used to construct the nearby Queen Elizabeth Hospital and many other public buildings during the 1970s.

The QEH, which needs thousands of props to prevent its roof from collapsing, is set to be replaced by a new hospital because it will be unsafe to use by 2030.

HTC hopes to redevelop the community centre into a "green, eco-friendly, sustainable venue".

A task and finish group is looking at improving sports facilities at the centre including a disabled changing room along with how space could be better used.

The centre is a registered Fields in Trust site which will be retained and used as a green space for community use and enjoyment, a public park, playing field or recreation ground.

Anyone with suggestions or ideas for the future of the venue can email clerk@hunstantontowncouncil.gov.uk.