Talks to be held as Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre faces £85,000 cuts

The Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre in Craven Arms is being ordered to make savings over the next two years, with its opening times being cut to six days a week at quieter periods of the year.

Now councillor Mike Owen, cabinet member for economic growth and prosperity, has said work is taking place to find a 'clear and sustainable way' to maintain the site.

He said its future will be discussed in connection with the Craven Arms Community Centre, which is in the process of being handed over to South Shropshire Furniture Scheme following its own budget cuts.

"The Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre also has savings targets for both this and next year. We have worked closely with our customers to understand their needs and have introduced a six-day operation for the quietest parts of the year," Councillor Owen said.

"We are working to find a clear and sustainable way forward for the Discovery Centre, that complements the Craven Arms Community Centre. We will have more information about these plans and how we will work with local stakeholders, partners and the community to develop them in the autumn."

Clive Leworthy, chairman of Craven Arms Town Council, said he had not heard about Shropshire Council's proposals for the future of the centre. He said: "I am concerned about the cuts for the centre and the people who work there."

The council announcement comes after MEP Phil Bennion criticised the authority for its planned cuts to the discovery centre and Acton Scott working farm.

He said: "Acton Scott is a superb facility and is a massive potential boost to the local economy. Savings are needed but the way cuts are being dished out by Shropshire Conservatives is surprising."

By Chris Burn