THE group that runs a regenerated former church building has hit back at claims the centre is struggling.

Users of the All Souls building in Astley Bridge and local councillors had suggested that the £5 million ‘space age’ community centre was not being as well used as hoped and raised fears about its future when funding runs out in 2018.

But the Churches Conservation Trust, which carried out the revamp project at the disused church, says visitor numbers are good and that while a future funding strategy is needed, those in charge are confident it can be achieved. A spokesman said: “It is not true that visitor numbers are low — quite the reverse. More than 250 people will come into the centre this week. Our murder mystery evening on October 21was sold out. All recent events have been very well attended. There are a multitude of groups including a refugee group, church groups, a history society and a Muslim prayer group which are flourishing. The centre is now fully tenanted and the cafe is reporting good footfall and sales. We have hosted our first wedding reception, and another is booked.”

Concerns were raised after two key men behind the transformation, director Andrew Suter and chair Inayat Omarji had left their posts, but the trust said funding for Mr Suter’s job ended and Mr Omarji left to pursue other interests.

Centre bosses have also refuted claims that an alcohol license led to divisions within the local community.

The spokesman said: “We host groups and take bookings from all sections of the community and we have never had any problems about divisions. Our mission is to cater for all the ‘third space’ needs of the diverse community. Yes, we have a licence to serve alcohol and we are aware that this can be sensitive, but we remain respectful of all faiths and ways of life and ask that our visitors and users are too.” So what next for the centre? It is true that the trust has been consulting on ideas for how to create the revenue funding needed in the future.The trust added: “After 2018 we’ve got to have a plan in place about how to keep up the good work. We’re confident that given the success of the project so far we’ll be able to attract continuing support and wWe’re in the midst of developing a proper business plan to get that underway now.”

“We’ve been really encouraged by the number of bookings we continue to take and the recognition we’ve had nationally and even internationally.

“You have to remember that All Souls is like nothing that’s ever existed before — an amazing heritage project that is open to everyone and serves its community by providing spaces to meet, play, socialise, help others, pray or meditate, pursue hobbies and interests, eat, learn or just get some quiet time away from home or work. We intend to go on offering all this to local people for years to come.”