Brookfield Hall is currently owned by Cheshire East Council and has been leased to Nantwich Town Council since 1992. The building has been used for community hire since 2012, when the Town Council relocated to the Civic Hall. However, since Covid-19, Brookfield Hall has struggled to generate income due to a lack of usage.
The Council are therefore seeking disposal of the asset through private auction, which is currently set to open for bidding on Monday 22nd June.
Councillors Geoff Smith and John Priest have received considerable support from residents wishing to retain the site for public usage. 'Brookfield for Community Use' has been set up by campaigners to demonstrate public backing and plans to convert Brookfield Hall into a community hub.
Connor Naismith, Member of Parliament for Crewe & Nantwich, is working closely with the councillors and has written to the Interim Director of Place at Cheshire East Council to request that the planned auction is delayed to allow for community organisations to explore sustainable funding alternatives for the site.
Connor Naismith, Labour MP for Crewe & Nantwich, said:
"I completely understand that the council need to make difficult decisions to make sure that public funding is spent well.
"However, the disposal of sites like Brookfield Hall - which have a demonstrable community value - should always be done in consultation with residents.
"Where there is appetite, local groups must be given the opportunity to present alternative plans for assets before they are put to auction. I don't believe sufficient time has been allocated for community engagement."
Councillor John Priest said:
"Brookfield Hall is a much-used asset by a wide section of our community, and it is essential that Cheshire East makes sure that support and funding is in place to keep this in the public domain for use by residents."
Councillor Geoff Smith said:
"It's great to be working with local community groups and our MP on this campaign.
"It's important that we ensure transparent decision making over the potential sale of sites like Brookfield Hall and that proper community engagement has taken place."
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Notes to the Editor The campaign website for 'Brookfield Hall for Community Use' can be found here: https://brookfield-hall-for-community-use.com/ The website for auction of Brookfield Hall can be accessed here: https://www.pugh-auctions.com/property/202604131532sq_p7rv
Image Description A copy of the letter sent by Mr Naismith to the Interim Director of Place at Cheshire East Council.
