A concept for a new Community Building
Eagerly, at 4.30 pm yesterday, I was first in the queue to see the display of the concept plans for a new community building on Westbridge Park. In fact I was too early and asked to wait outside while the exhibition was set up!
The presentation was by Hulme Upright and Manning, architects from Stoke-on-Trent, who have been commisioned by the Stone Market Town Iniatative to carry out a feasability study. Consulation took place some weeks ago and today we were able to look at a design concept and drawings.
Essentially, the proposed scheme would provide a 275 seater theatre in a two storey building on the site of the existing tennis courts next to the sports centre. The seating in the auditorium would be moveable to create a large flat floored hall. Another single storey series of buildings would form a sweeping arc on the Stafford Road frontage and would include provision for new Scout and Guide Huts. The two buildings would be joined by a glass covered atrium and roof.
I am quite impressed. But concepts are fine and the devil, as always, will be in the detail. But before I get too excited, I want to hear from someone with the answer to two fundamental questions - Who is going to pay to build it and how will it pay for itself, once built?
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