ORGANISATIONS and clubs are looking for a new home after a housing association announced it would move its offices into a community centre.

The Hythe Community Centre, Colchester, has lost half of its space because owner Cotman Housing Association wants to move its regional offices into the building.

Staff and users at the centre have been managed by charity group the Hythe Community Centre Association since it opened in 2001, and have been campaigning against the decision, claiming the housing group is putting profits before people.

On Wednesday the housing association was at the site to change the locks.

A joint statement from other user groups and residents says: “While we recognise that Cotman Housing Association have certain rights to use one half of the building, we are concerned that the reduced income will threaten the sustainability of the community centre asawhole for the future.

“We hope that Cotman Housing Association will live up to their mission statement and work with us.”

About ten clubs have been affected by the change. Some have found new places to meet outside of the Hythe, but others still face an uncertain future.

A spokesperson for Cotman Housing Association said: “As a social housing provider, we have a duty of care to our customers to achieve value for money and ensure access to our services.

“We would like to reassure residents and community groups we are listening.

“We will be consulting with Hythe Community Centre Association about the changes and we hope to be able to continue working together and playing a key role in supporting the local community.”

Cotman still needs planning permission to change the buildings into offices, and the consultation closes on Tuesday.

Share your views by searching for application number 151095 on Colchester Council’s planning website.