PLANS for Highcliffe Residents Association to take over a historic building in the village could be finalised in the next few weeks, despite concerns over its ailing state.

The residents association – also a Community Interest Company (CIC) – made the move to take over the running and management of the old school building currently used by the Rainbow Pre-school earlier this year.

At present Dorset County Council owns the building, but has agreed to gift it to the association.

But major concerns were raised when a recent structural survey paid for by the residents association showed a number of serious repairs needed undertaking at the building.

These included the ‘severe distortion’ of a main hall wall on the Grade II listed building.

However, although Dorset County Council, who carried out their own survey, said the building was safe for the nursery to continue its operations in, they are now considering funding the urgent repairs with a report to be presented to Cabinet on June 15.

John Mather chairman of the residents association said: “Ultimately we will be responsible for the nursery operations there so I need to know what is happening.

“Our members have given us the okay to take the building over and I understand it would be silly to take it on board if we were to be left high and dry.”

Peter Scarlett, valuation and estates manager at Dorset County Council said: “The building is not in the best state of repair.

“We have been open and honest about the condition of the building and have given them details of what we were aware of.”

Sue Richardson, manager and director of the Rainbow Pre-school said: “I think it is a great idea for the residents’ association to take over the building and I am happy it will be used by the community.

“Regarding the repairs, if I thought there were any problems posing the slightest risk to the children, I would shut it down immediately.”

The majority of residents backed the decision of the association.