Council-run day centre to change hands

The council are working toward the lease with Vital Village being signed in April

A council-run day centre in Surrey is set to change hands with plans to create a community hub.

At an Elmbridge Borough Council scrutiny meeting on Thursday, plans to hand the Thames Ditton Centre over to community interest company Vital Village were given the go ahead.

A council spokesperson said: "Vital Village is to create a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable community hub that serves as the heart of the local community."

However, the proposal to hand over control of the centre was criticised by local residents, who started a petition, which has over 900 signatures.

The Thames Ditton Centre provides clubs and activities to elderly and vulnerable residents.

A council spokesperson explained Vital Village would "coordinate a varied programme of activities and events" for the community hub.

The council are working toward the lease with Vital Village being signed in April.