Sports centre in Corfe Mullen closed after safety inspection

The Pavilion building at the recreation ground in Corfe Mullen has been forced to stop all indoor sports lessons since June after thorough inspections by two councillors revealed the building was a “risk to users”. 

This was then followed up by an independent health and safety inspection by a certified and qualified inspector. 

The report, by Verwood-based Cusack-EHS, mentioned loose bricks, exposed sharp edges and a kitchen with “a number of hygiene issues”. 

Kitchen. Image by Cusack-EHS

The report adds: “At the time of the investigation there were concerns about the state of decoration, the effectiveness of the extractor fan, the condition of the kitchen floor surface and malodour within the microwave oven. 

“A number of (external) brick windowsills are defective. Bricks are loose and can be easily prised loose. There is a risk that a child could accidentally pull a brick loose, causing it to fall and injure them.” 

The report also noted the no fire safety assesments were taken: “There was no evidence of a fire risk assessment having been undertaken in the building, nor reference to it on any noticeboard.” 

A window with cobwebs. Image by Cusack-EHS

A spokesperson for Corfe Mullen Town Council said: “It is with much regret that the Town Council has been forced to take the decision to close the Pavilion building at the Recreation Ground on the grounds of fire, health, and safety. 

“The findings of the report supported the councillors' concerns in respect of fire, health and safety throughout the building and the possible risk to users along with the liability to the Town Council.” 

The Corfe Mullen Sports Association, who hold a lease for the building which expired in 2020, remains a tenant on a ‘holding over’ basis. They are responsible for the interior of the building under the lease. 

Cracks were in the walls of the building. Image by Cusack-EHS

The Daily Echo contacted Corfe Mullen Sports Association for a comment. 

One woman who uses the pavilion said: “All of the clubs are run by volunteers and have been using the grounds and pavilion for years with no problems so this sudden decision by the council seems extremely peculiar. 

“During current times, with rising levels of obesity and a mental health crisis, you would expect the council to prioritise local sporting facilities.” 

Mould is seen growing inside the building. Image by Cusack-EHS

Corfe Mullen Town Council’s spokesperson added: “The Town Council is unable to advise on the various sports clubs as this is the remit and responsibility of the CMSA.  

“The Town Council hopes that everyone affected by the closure respects the decision and recognises that it is to protect the health and safety of all pavilion users. Further updates will be provided as and when information is known.”