CONCERNED community groups are urging Wyre Borough Council to think long and hard before deciding on whether to close down Thornton Lecture Hall.

The Countryside, Leisure and Cultural Services Committee met on February 8 to discuss the future of the Lecture Hall at Four Lane Ends, pictured here.

The committee was deciding whether to conduct a feasibility study into the options open to the council -- including closing it for good. A report into the lecture hall is included in council papers which says the hall is "only able to offer a limited level of service to customers ... making it extremely difficult to attract new users."

The report also states that as there is only one main hall, which is licensed for 200 people, it is difficult to host two events at one time, and further states: "In particular the building does not lend itself for use by smaller community groups."

It also lists the repairs which will have to be completed on the hall over the next few years, estimated at around £140,000.

But one woman who regularly uses the hall said she was distraught at the fact it could soon be closed for good. And she also disagrees that the hall does not suit "smaller community groups."

"It is used by so many different groups," she said, "not just our own.

"It would almost definitely spell the end for our meetings if the hall were to close. It's a bit like a lifeline for the community. Some of the older people go to lots of different groups and it might be the only contact they get with the outside world.

"I don't see what sort of a solution could be offered if they do close the hall because there isn't really anywhere else nearby that's suitable.

"We're only a small community group and we don't need all the fancy facilities like bars and restaurants that other places offer.

"The council needs to weigh up the costs of running the centre against the benefits to the community."

No one at the council was available for comment, but The Citizen was given this statement: "The future of Thornton Lecture Hall will be discussed at the next meeting of the Countryside, Leisure and Cultural Services Committee.

"If members approve a feasibility study, the study would look at every available option."