THE future of the Greig Hall has been assured after a decision was made to move the entire site into public ownership.

At a public meeting held on March 10, district councillors decided that the Greig will be transferred over to Stratford District Council thus ending the possibility of it going into administration.

In August 2011 the Greig Trust announced the closure of the hall after it ran into financial difficulties and arguments have raged since about the best way to get the place back up and running.

Alcester councillor Mike Gittus has campaigned long and hard for this outcome and said that it marks the beginning of a fantastic new era for Alcester and the residents of Stratford.

"The driving force to keep the memorial hall standing was always the 1,400 or so people who petitioned for its retention. During this time I knew that the principle could only become reality if the bulldozers were kept at bay," he said.

He went on to personally thank everyone who helped and supported the campaign to 'Save The Greig'.

Alcester Mayor Mark Cargill was also delighted to hear the news, saying: "These are exciting times for the town of Alcester and it now means that the hall can be run by the community for the community.

"Alcester Town Council will be calling for volunteers to help run the hall and intend to set up a management committee in the near future. The people of Alcester have the skills and enthusiasm to take this forward and make a success of the hall."

David Rose, speaking on behalf of the Greig Trust, added: “ The Greig Trustees welcome the decision of Stratford District Council Cabinet to continue running Lifestyles in line with the trust’s commitment to sports, leisure and community services. The trust had secured £250,000 to upgrade Lifestyles and the district council should match this.

“Alcester Town Council have had three years to come forward and haven't, so finally the people of Alcester can look forward to its council and district councillors leading the project. We wish them well.”