After a wide public consultation and with much deliberation, Herne & Broomfield Parish Council has taken the decision not to renew the existing management contract for the Herne Centre with West Faversham Community Association (WFCA) when it comes to an end in October 2023.
The centre staff have been made aware of the parish council’s decision by its employers WFCA. The parish council is very aware of the importance of the wraparound childcare that is currently provided at the Herne Centre and are working extremely hard to secure another provider for the next academic year. Active negotiations are ongoing, and it is hoped that a decision can be reached as soon as possible. Due to the sensitive nature of these negotiations, we are unable to provide any further information at the current time. As soon as a decision is reached this will be made public as an absolute priority.
The Herne Centre is a community asset, and although it is not expected to generate a large income it is expected to cover its costs. Unfortunately, it is running at a significant loss, which should it continue at the current rate has the potential to require the parish council to increase the precept. This would have an impact on all the residents of the parish. As it stands, the parish council receives no income at all for any of the community activities, including the wraparound childcare. Due to the confidential nature of the current contract and the discussions with WFCA we cannot comment any further on the details that have been publicised elsewhere.
The parish council will continue to keep all the users of the centre up to date with the decision-making process. There is a lot that needs to be considered moving forward regarding staffing, wraparound childcare, future bookings, community activities, and regular hirers. The parish council will endeavour to make the transition as smooth as is feasibly possible.