The Borelli Shelter, a locally listed structure, was designed by Harold Falkner, the architect behind many of Farnham’s iconic buildings, and funded by renowned businessman Charles Borelli.
It stands beside the meadow’s play park which is currently being upgraded with new wooden equipment and improved accessibility features.
The shelter is currently closed to the public while the play area revamp continues.
It is flanked by large trees, which councillors say are contributing to cracks in the roof and movement in the building’s structure.
At a recent meeting of Farnham Town Council’s Strategy and Resources Committee earlier in the month, members discussed potential solutions — including removing the trees, relocating the shelter, or dismantling and rebuilding it on a new foundation.
At the subsequent full council meeting last week, it was confirmed that the structural concerns could potentially delay the opening of the play area, which is due to be finished before the start of the school summer holidays.
Mayor George Murray said: “We have got the playground up and running in July and can’t have an unstable building next to it.”
Council Leader Cllr Graham White added: “We need to dismantle Borelli Shelter and put it on a floating slab.”
Some councillors raised concerns about whether the shelter could be accurately reconstructed if taken apart. Others stressed the need to consult with the local planning authority before any work begins.
The council agreed to proceed with repairs and to explore the option of a floating slab foundation to reduce the risk of future structural damage. They will also seek formal guidance on the implications of dismantling and rebuilding the shelter if necessary.
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