IT is still too early to determine when the razed Somerville Community and Recreation Centre will be re-opened, but rebuilding works are a hot topic in the town.
“We are working hard with the insurers and builders to determine options and timeframes for the reopening of the centre, and will work closely with key user groups throughout this process,” Mornington Peninsula Shire mayor Graham Pittock said Friday.
Cr Pittock, who has taken over the “representative” duties for Watson ward following the sudden resignation of Lynn Bowden earlier this month, said community, user groups and local residents were waiting patiently while the shire made alternative arrangements.
A community drop-in session will be held 3.30-6pm, Thursday 26 May, at 13 Edward St, to gauge residents’ views on the re-building process.
An online survey will be available on the shire’s website.
The destroyed stadium portion of the building has been completely demolished and debris removed, and the rest of the building has been made safe and secure. The shire continues to work with the insurers to plan for the rebuilding of the stadium and the community services end of the building, Cr Pittock said.
The precinct immediately around the centre has been fenced off and the public has been is asked to stay clear for safety reasons.
Meanwhile, group fitness sessions are being held at 13 Edward St, Somerville, with all access programs and personal training. Somerville Health & Fitness Studio was launched yesterday, Monday 23 May. New members are invited to try the new studio. Details: 1300 850 197.
Somerville Skate Park reopened Friday 20 May. The skate park was fenced off for safety reasons as it is so close to the rebuilding site. It is likely that the skate park will need to be fenced off again once stadium construction begins. Details: 1300 850 600.
A Somerville Youth Space is being run 3-5pm Thursdays at the Fruitgrowers’ Reserve pavilion. It will be run by two shire youth workers. Details: Youth Services, 5950 1666.
The shire says all 26 key user groups of the wrecked stadium have found short-term alternative locations. Details: call clubs or 5950 1150.
The customer service facility at the centre has been moved to Somerville library, 1085 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Somerville. Customer service hours at the library are: Monday closed, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10am-5pm and weekends closed. Details: customerservice@mornpen.vic.gov.au or call 1300 850 600.
Somerville Community House services are available at temporary sites. The office is Shop 24, Somerville Central shopping centre. Somerville maternal and child health clients are being offered consultations at alternative centres, including Hastings Community Health Centre. Families with transport difficulties should call 1300 850 600.
First published in the Western Port News – 24 May 2016
