IRVINE’S MP has once again lashed out at a housing association’s plans to take over a community centre.

Brian Donohoe has slated ANCHO’s proposals to move into and operate the Redburn Community Centre.

The Times told last week how North Ayrshire Council’s Cabinet approved the plans subject to a successful transfer petition.

But the fuming politician insists ANCHO’s proposals are not in the best interests of the centre users and claims there is “intense hostility” towards the company.

The Labour politician said this week: “This sounds to me like a cosy arrangement that suits everyone except those who are most important – the centre users. They will fight tooth and nail against this.

“The council will be happy to offload a building that costs money to run and the housing association will be equally happy to acquire new offices at a bargain price.

“But I understand that the people who use the facility are far from happy. The Community Association are against it, as are the people of Castlepark, Redburn and Vineburgh.

"The level of consultation between ANCHO and the user groups has not been sufficient. They are angry because they believe the transfer is being pushed through without any concern for their accommodation needs.

“The Redburn Centre doesn’t have room for ANCHO and its staff as well as the community groups which rely on the place for their activities.

“I have said right from the outset that I would campaign tirelessly to ensure the proposal is not taken forward. A community centre with a reduced capacity is the last thing they need.

“I would have thought that ANCHO would be looking around for somewhere else, given the intense hostility there is.

“Also, shame on North Ayrshire Council for gleefully washing their hands of a community facility because it is yet another ‘liability’ they don’t have to concern themselves with.” A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “North Ayrshire Council’s community asset transfer policy allows eligible organisations to apply to lease or assume ownership of suitable council assets.

“There are five stages in this process and ANCHO have now progressed to Stage Four. At this stage, the council will have discussions will all key stakeholders to assess the suitability and terms of the proposed lease for all concerned."