It might be six months overdue but it has been revealed today a much needed new community centre in Hitchin is set to open its doors early next month.

The Westmill Community Centre in John Barker Place should have been opened by March but the £2 million building has finally been given the green light to open on Monday, September 12.

The keys to the new community centre were handed over to Westmill Community Centre yesterday, meaning the centre can now officially open its doors to the public.

Community centre manager Emma Connor said: “It’s great news for the community.

“We are expecting a lot of new groups to use the new facility.

“We are open for enquiries and the first groups will be able to use the centre from Monday, September 12.”

The association will now move across from the existing building to the new community centre over the next coming weeks.

When the building is vacated, it will be demolished ready for the construction of a new multi use games area for youngsters to use and enjoy.

Councillor Tony Hunter, North Herts District Council’s executive member for community engagement, said: “We’re really pleased.

“This is an exciting step forward in the project.”

Trevor Gillard, Westmill Community Association treasurer, added: “We’re thrilled to be able to move our community groups and hirers into the new, purpose built centre.

“We would like to express our sincere thanks to thank North Herts Homes and their builders, Storm and to the local residents for accepting some inconvenience during the build.

“We are also extremely grateful to North Herts District Council for their invaluable support throughout this project.”