Council mulls extra £85k for pavilion upgrade

The proposed refurbishment of West End Pavilion includes upgrading the heating, lighting, changing rooms, accessibility and the addition of a public toilet

A local authority is due to consider a request for extra funding towards improving a popular community facility in Surrey.

Surrey Heath Borough Council is being advised to approve an additional £85,000 in funding towards an upgrade of the West End Pavilion, estimated to total £450,000.

The proposed refurbishment includes upgrading the heating, lighting, changing rooms, accessibility and the addition of a public toilet.

Councillor Alan Ashbery said: "This project from West End Parish Council aligns with a number of our key priorities to promote healthier and more inclusive communities."

He added: "It also helps us to promote vibrant villages and local centres."

The council said West End village has grown in recent years, with more than 400 new houses, and the parish council wants to improve the community facilities accordingly.

If approved, the council said funding would come at no cost to the council or taxpayers, and would come from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) fund.

West End Parish Council has asked for a CIL contribution above the 15% standard parish contribution towards their pavilion refurbishment project.

The pavilion at Benner Lane is already a well-used venue for a wide range of activities which benefit the community.

It also acts as the parish council office and meeting hall and was last refurbished in 1990.