Edinburgh community centre to be permanently closed after deliberate fire

An Ediburgh community centre is to be permanently closed after it was deliberately set on fire last year.

Costly repairs to Moredun Community Centre are “difficult to justify” as it was already “at the end of its natural life” before being targeted by fire raisers last year, the council said.

This week councillors will be asked to formally declare the building surplus to requirements and “alternative uses for the site” will be explored, including selling it off.

One option could be to offer it up for new affordable homes “as part of the small sites affordable housing delivery programme,” a report said.

It added in the event there is a “desire to retain the centre” then “demolition and new build would be the preferred solution”.

The community centre, which was constructed around 1950, was set on fire last May, causing damage to rear boundary fence, rear wall, roof and the kitchen and corridor within the building.

While still open it hosted two weekly lunch clubs, which have since been re-located, and a Friday night bingo session alongside local parties and other events.

The cost of bringing it up to a “modern standard” was estimated at around £238k,000.

“Notwithstanding the immediately costs required, the building is of prefab type construction and, after over 70-years, is considered to be at the end of its natural life,” the report said.

“It is difficult to justify further expenditure and therefore it is intended to keep the centre closed and seek alternative uses for the site.

“It has been concluded that the council should not carry out repairs and improvement work, and that the building should be permanently closed.

The report noted Goodtrees Community Centre a half a mile away was also available for use.

“The process will now begin to formally declare the property surplus through the council’s Property Strategy Group, and expressions of interest will be sought for the future of the site including offering it to Housing as part of the small sites affordable housing delivery programme,” it added.

“Remaining management committee members are being contacted to arrange a meeting with them to discuss the permanent closure of, and next steps, in relation to the building and site.

“This will include discussions on removal of the furnishings and materials currently still in the building and consideration of their future use.”