WINSFORD town councillors have been asked to clarify the future of one of the town’s much-loved youth clubs.

Worried residents have expressed concerns about what will happen to New Images in Nixon Drive when Verdin High School, eventually closes to make way for an Academy.

Speaking at the town council’s meeting on Monday, Springbank Crescent resident Mike Kennedy, who is heavily involved with the club, said as the site is owned by the high school, people are uncertain of its future.

He said: “Nine years ago we formed an action group because we had to fight Cheshire County Council to save that youth club because they wanted to sell it.

“We had the kids out on the street and everything. In the end it was agreed that the lease would be transferred to the school for ten years but that’s almost coming to an end.”

He added: “I raised the issue at the scrutiny committee meeting and Clr Mike Jones said he sees no reason why we can’t extend the lease for two years but he made that statement before the plans for the Academy were revealed.

“I would like the town council to get some confirmation because if the decision has been made to move the Verdin I believe proposals of plans must have been put in place about the youth centre.”

Town Mayor Clr Nick Harris people should use the Academy’s consultation period to have their say about the club. He said: “I hope as many people as possible make their comments. My understanding is it will be three or four years before an Academy is built.”

Clr Des Worthington added: “I would also like to know what security that place has. It’s very, very important in this area.”

The town council funds the youth club through the Youth Forum.