A under threat youth base in Diss could be saved under proposals that could see users taking over the running of the centre.

Officials from Norfolk County Council and Diss Town Council met this week to discuss whether a management trust could be formed to halt the closure of the Diss Youth Resource Base.

As reported last week, the building in Shelfanger Road, is at risk as a result of Norfolk County Council cutbacks, which could see users like the South Norfolk Youth Symphonic Band being evicted by April 15.

But town councillors hope they can use the same model adopted so successfully for the Diss Corn Hall to keep the centre open.

Councillors and officials from the county council and Corn Hall Trust met in private on Monday and a 'strategic proposal' will be drawn up, which will be discussed by Diss Town Council on March 16.

Town and district councillor Glyn Walden said the meeting was 'very positive' and it was hoped that Norfolk County Council will consider a lease arrangement while a management trust is established. He added that local parish councils and user groups will be consulted.

Jenny Chamberlin, local county councillor, added: 'What the town council and I need is for the communities outside our precept area to commit to supporting the idea as well. The fate of the building will be decided in early April, so there is no time to sit and think about it.'