Councillors have called for action over the state of the former Sure Start centre in Dereham, which has been struck by vandalism.

In 2019, when the building closed, Norfolk County Council said that efforts were being made to repurpose the community facility.

The council had said it was working with nearby schools to determine how the building could be used to support children in a smaller learning environment.

However, the building, which has remained unoccupied since 2019 after Norfolk County Council closed 38 of its children's centres, has been vandalised and broken into.

The latest incident reported took place on May 7. 

Dereham Times: Broken windows after a report that teenagers had broken into the Sure Start Centre in Dereham.Broken windows after a report that teenagers had broken into the Sure Start Centre in Dereham. (Image: Cllr Ray O' Callaghan)
Demanding action, Dereham councillor Ray O' Callaghan said: "I received an email from an annoyed neighbour of the property. He had called 999 when he heard noise and the smashing of glass from the building. 

"It became clear that a group of younger teenagers had broken into the building and were running wild, throwing fire extinguishers through windows and turning furniture and fittings over."

The incident has led to the building being boarded up. 

Dereham Times: The former Sure Start centre has been closed since 2019, when it was one of 38 other centres forced to shut its doors.The former Sure Start centre has been closed since 2019, when it was one of 38 other centres forced to shut its doors. (Image: Denise Bradley)

Also calling for action is fellow councillor Harry Clarke who is now demanding answers from the county council.

"We've had years of no decisions on its future, no proper engagement with the community or us as ward members, and no clarity on any possible disposal processes.

"Trying to get answers has been like nailing jelly to a wall," said Cllr Clarke. 

"I can't believe it's been since 2017 when I campaigned against its closure. Dereham deserves better, much better."

Cllr O' Callaghan has also expressed his dismay at the state of the site, previously calling it an "eyesore and an embarrassment to Dereham". 

Dereham Times: Councillors have complained that the building has been recently vandalised and broken into.Councillors have complained that the building has been recently vandalised and broken into. (Image: Denise Bradley)

Last year, plans were in the works to reopen the building as a learning centre.

"We were told something new and exciting was on its way. That was seven years ago," said Cllr O' Callaghan. 

Norfolk County Council has been approached for comment.