THE Maidenhead Heritage Centre could move out of the town centre as trustees have “ambitions” to expand the museum.

The former Sports Able building in Braywick Park could soon home the heritage centre, which is currently on Park Street, if they and the council come to an agreement.

The trustees announced the closure of the Sports Able charity and vacated the building in May 2021 due to a shortage of funding and volunteers.

With the single-storey building now empty, the centre could be offered the 8,250sq ft space if senior councillors approve the first step of the plans at a cabinet meeting on Thursday, June 24.

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According to the report, talks between the council and the trustees of the heritage centre have been “positive” as they have “ambitions” to expand the museum.

The report also mentions relocating them will free up the building for phase three of the York Road development project, a joint venture between the Royal Borough council and Countryside Properties which is delivering 229 new homes, community spaces, and restaurants in that part of Maidenhead.

If agreed, the council will take on the costs of running the vacant heritage centre as well as its possible demolition, which is “assumed” to be £108,000.

In the event the council and the heritage centre cannot reach an agreement, the former Sports Able building could be leased on a commercial basis, such as for pre-schools or nursery occupiers.

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They say this could generate between £65,000 to £100,000 per year if the council goes this route.

The report also stated voluntary and community groups have expressed interest in moving into the vacant building, such as the St John Ambulance and Maidenhead Hindu Society.

However, officers have recommended for this option not to be taken as it would cost the council thousands of pounds to repair the building for the groups to move in.

It is anticipated a final decision if the heritage centre wants to move into the former Sports Able building will be made by August 31, 2021.