A NEW community centre in Wycombe Marsh, costing £435,500, has got the go ahead.

Conservative-controlled Wycombe District Council agreed last night to put £187,556 into the project, to the delight of the ward's representatives.

The money includes £60,000 from the developers behind the Irish Club and Halfway House projects and a £100,000 council grant from its special expenses.

The council's partner in the scheme, the Trades and Social Club, will contribute £250,000.

A report last year found there was a lack of 'community facilities' in the area.

Liberal Democrat Leader at WDC, Cllr Trevor Snaith, who represents Ryemead ward, said: “We are now a step closer to delivering the Wycombe Marsh Community centre with cabinet agreeing the business case and funding stream for the Community Centre.

“This is a project that has been ongoing for over five years and is a great example of how a community can come together to deliver for local people.”

His Lib Dem and Ryemead ward colleague Cllr Ray Farmer said: “When I first became councillor the first question asked by residents was 'where is the community centre we were promised?'

“Thanks to the work of local residents, church groups, the Heart of Ryemead Community Association the Trades & Social club and the work of council officers this vision is becoming a reality — well done.”

WDC has asked that if revenue from the club when it opens reaches £125,000 per year, it will get a five per cent return to reinvest in other projects.

Last night's decision follows recommendations from The High Wycombe Town Committee.