Scout Leader Andrew Sharpe says while he is encouraged by discussions he still remains cautious about their future.
Mr Sharpe, the Scout Leader at 1st Molescroft comments came following discussions that took place between ERYC and Cllr Denis Healy.
Cllr Healy met with council officials to discuss the eviction notice served to the scouts. He said that he felt the local authority was working hard to find a solution.
Mr Sharpe said;
“While encouraged by the outcome of Cllr Healy’s discussions we remain cautious as we have still had no direct contact from ERYC since an email in mid-November.”
“We await the outcome of the proposed meeting between ERYC and Longcroft and hope this can take place at the earliest opportunity.”
“We remain ready to sit down with both parties to put together a tangible plan of action with agreed timelines for completion.”
“Also we feel this needs to happen within the next couple of weeks. This is due to the short period of time we have to resolve this.”
Both the scouts and local air cadet group have been told they need to leave the site by December 2020. They are being evicted to make way as there are plans to redevelop the site for housing.
Commenting on his meeting Cllr Healy said officers at the council understand the importance of both groups. He said they also understand the importance both groups bring to the community.
Cllr Healy said;
“Dialogue is taking place to broker a solution, one of which could potentially involve another site at the consolidated Longcroft School.”
Scout Leader Remains Cautious But Where There is a Will There is a Way
“It will be a matter for the Governing body and the Council to reach an agreement on that. I think we need to allow them to get on with those discussions and come back with some practical proposals.”
“Senior officers have told me that they want to find a way of making this solution work. If not, they have said that they need to look at alternatives.”
“Overall I am encouraged that the Council values the scouts and cadets. Also, they are showing a willingness to solve this problem.”
“Where there’s a will there’s usually a way. If matters progress quickly, I am hopeful that we will also have the time to make this happen before the scouts and cadets need to vacate their buildings.”
