BOURTON parish councillors are exploring ways in which they can take over control of the some Gloucestershire County Council-owned facilities in the village.

Parish council chairman Bryan Sumner and other council members are meeting a GCC representative to find out what opportunities there are under the county council’s Big Community Offer scheme.

Coun Sumner told the parish council meeting last week that they would discuss the Salmonsbury House site, the old people’s development due to close some time this year or early next year, and also the library and youth centre site.

The Big Community Offer initiative will enable local communities to take over the running of community facilities, such as youth centres and libraries, and council-owned buildings on a preferential rental or leasehold basis.

“We are very encouraged by the offer and the chance it offers to consolidate community facilities,” said Coun Sumner.

Among the possible facilities being considered are a community hall, a library, a visitor information centre, a youth centre and new office for the parish council clerk.