A community centre has been brought back into use after being empty for a long period of time.

Cllr Emily Mort,who represents Crompton Ward, said it is was great to see the building will finally be in use for the community after so long.

It is understood that a local amateur football club is set to officially move in during the next few weeks, for it to be used in the summertime.

She said: “We want to see buildings in use for the community.

“It has been an empty building for so long and I am over the moon.

“I was determined to help get this done and I didn’t want it to go into another year.”

Cllr Mort says that the building has undergone a refurbishment, and the finishing touches are currently taking places.

She added: “There are a few jobs that need doing and it has had a lot of work done.

“They will officially move in soon, and they will probably use it over the summer.

“The process for leasing building doesn’t have a good reputation in the community, but when people work together, we really can make a positive experience for everybody.”

Cllr Rabiya Jiva added: "It's a great asset for the local community to enjoy the facilities, in partnership with the organisation which has been given the lease.

“I am looking forward to working closely with the organisation to develop stronger links and more community-based activities, including women and girls.”

Cllr Mort also explained that it has been quite a journey for the club following the change in leasing premises, where previously organisations had to be community organisations and now, they need to be considered a legal entity.

She said: “The change will allow groups to have more access to funding such as gift aid, and more services, helping their future progression.

“When I was elected, we were trying to get it leased and all leasing for premises changed during Covid and I helped get a business plan together.

“There was a big piece of work involved in getting it considered by the council.”

Work is currently being carried out to see what funding is available for the club.

An opening date date is yet to be confirmed at the centre.

The Hibbert Community Centre has been a space for a number of different activities in the Crompton area, which in the past has been used for training courses, outreach, art projects, trips, and much more.

If you have a story and something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at jasmine.jackson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @JournoJasmine.