HUGE steps have been taken in the quest to build a new community centre hall in Eastrea. Organisers behind the project said the plans for the Eastrea Centre, a new community hall for Fenland are now moving full steam ahead. The new building designed by Ca

HUGE steps have been taken in the quest to build a new community centre hall in Eastrea.

Organisers behind the project said the plans for the Eastrea Centre, a new community hall for Fenland are now moving full steam ahead.

The new building designed by Cambridgeshire architect Jonathan Ellis-Miller, is expected to meet the growing needs for a community centre by local people.

The Eastrea Village Hall Foundation need to raise £1m for the project but JD Developments, who are partners in the scheme have agreed to donate £250,000 towards the cost of the project.

Brian Ford, chairman of the foundation, said: "People can no longer afford to just drive away and find the facilities they want.

"With rising levels of CO2 and the sheer cost of travel, we will need to provide facilities for people near their homes.

"The hall will offer classes and concerts, clinics, and consultants and there are plans to offer space for festivals, fairs and to revive the traditional Mutton Day celebration."

The foundation has a team of people working on the project.

Mr Ford added: "JD Developments are our partners and pare planning to develop 14 new homes alongside the new centre.

"They have agreed to donate £250,000 towards the cost of the project, which will total £1million."

In addition the foundation is now through to the final shortlist for a £500,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund, and grants are also being sought from WREN, the landfill tax organistion and other local charities.

Planning consultant Lewis Smith will handle the planning application to Fenland District Council.

Mr Ford added: "We are determined to present a watertight case - this part of Fenland has a chronic need for good community facilities and we have a project that ticks all the right boxes.