HASLEMERE'S controversial new pavilion in Weycombe Road is set to open its doors in the new year.
The new, blue-topped building, which has famously been called anything from an "eyesore" to looking like a "fish-packing factory" by local residents, has been built as part of regeneration of the Kilnfields.
Described by Waverley Borough Council as an "ideal venue" for local clubs or community groups, it could accommodate anything from an exercise class, youth club, or martial arts, to dances and quiz nights.
The Lib Dem Waverley portfolio holder for leisure, Byron Granger-Jones, said: "The new community centre is a great facility for the people of Haslemere.
"It will provide local clubs and community groups with a wonderful venue and hopefully provide a wider choice of activities."
His sentiments, though, are not shared by two householders in Bartholomew Close whose homes have been blighted by the pavilion which has wiped in the region of £30,000 off each of their properties.
It was built in the shadow of their homes and just yards from the front doors.
The residents were this week said to be still fighting for compensation over the matter.
The long-running saga came to a head in October when the Waverley Borough Council ruling Lib Dems decided to overturn a recommendation by officers to buy the homes and rent them out to key workers.
The decision led to weeks of political backbiting with the homeowners being used as a political football in the ensuing row.
Now, almost two months later, a resident of one of the two homes affected, Jean Cook said: "I think the least they could do is make up for the loss on the value of our property."
• For information on how to hire the new community centre contact Jo Wherrell on 01483 523447 or e-mail: [email protected]">[email protected]