Popular Bronte Pavilion in Normanton to get £1m refurbishment

The club was built in the mid-1980s has become run down in recent years.

St John's Welfare Centre, which is more commonly known as the Bronte Pavilion, in Normanton, is in desperate need of improvements.

Built in the mid-1980s, the facility has several sports pitches and a small venue for local people to socialise.

But in recent years its become worn down by the passing of time and has suffered from anti-social behaviour and vandalism.

But after Wakefield Council's Cabinet approved a financial package on Tuesday, a plan to refurbish the site will go ahead.

That will involve expanding the club building to give more people better views of the pitches, as well as an overhaul of the changing and toilet facilities.

The venue will be made more accessible for female sports teams and some of the furnishings will be replaced.

Speaking before Tuesday's meeting, Normanton councillor David Dagger said the expected funding was welcome news for the town.

"We're really pleased", he said.

"It's something that we've been lobbying for for a long time here in Normanton, so it's great the council have found the money to do it.

"I remember when it was built about 30, 35 years ago and I remember my kids playing football there.

"It's a really well used facility and popular with the community but it has become a bit dilapidated and it is showing its age a bit."

A public report said the building's original design, which included a veranda, had drawn "gatherings and vandalism" as well as "littering and anti-social behaviour".

It added: "The building requires improvement through a major overhaul to allow its continued viability otherwise it will continue to fall into disrepair and eventually not be functional."

The £1m plan was approved the same day renovations for Thornes Park in Wakefield were also signed off.

Council leader Denise Jeffery told the meeting: "I know this is something that local members have wanted for a long.

"It will take us forward and it's all part of our programme to invest in sports facilities for people in this district."

Local Democracy Reporting Service