Former Scout Hut on Long Street, Middleton saved for now

A former Scout Hut on Long Street Middleton has been saved from disposal after councillors asked for council officers to look into other options for the site.

In a report to councillors on the Middleton Township Committee, it was recommended that the building be declared surplus to requirements and released for disposal.

Councillor Peter Joinson said: “The building could make a decent central meeting area for people as we don’t have anything like that in Middleton. I know we use this place [Middleton Arena] and the library when the arena isn’t available but they are not always suitable. The building has recently been refurbished, so let’s look at it for other uses like a community meet up place. It is on a bus route, has access for disabled people and is central.”

Councillor Philip Burk said: “It could be a great community space. What else have we got with space like that? Let’s keep hold of it.”

Councillor Alan Godson said: “Let's send a clear message here, this building is not for sale.”

Councillors have asked officers to go away and look at other viable options for the site and have deferred a decision on its disposal until other options have been explored.