A COMMUNITY centre which was threatened with closure is now covering its day-to-day running costs, trustees have said.

The survival of Alington House, in Durham, was thrown into doubt in 2006, when its then management revealed it was struggling for volunteers and failing to balance the books.

Last year, the North Bailey building was estimated to need £600,000-worth of repairs within two-and-a-half years.

However, its new governing body, which took over last summer, says bookings are up, there are no plans to close and they are looking to the future positively.

Trustee Tony Curtis said: "Alington House is continuing to operate and we are seeing increased usage.

"We still have to raise substantial amounts to make the building fit for purpose, and we’re looking at what we should do and how much that would cost."

However, Mr Curtis stressed no work had to be done immediately.

"There’s no immediate danger to the building. We’re cautiously optimistic."

Alington House community association has served Durham since 1933 and moved to its current home in 1948.

Mr Curtis was speaking following its annual general meeting, held on Wednesday, April 22.

"Everybody was very positive. People are looking forward to the future," he said.

Since last summer, Alington House has: satisfied a fire officer with its progress on safety; completed an electrical safety repair; recruited new association members and room bookings; introduced a new booking system; and secured extra funding.

When the threat of closure loomed, user groups left the building. But among the new groups to visit since last summer is Jam Jah - a music night popular with young people wanting to listen to bands outside of a pub setting.

Quarterly meetings have also begun to keep members and others up to date with progress at the centre.

Supporters are stressing the long-term future of Alington House is not entirely secured - a review of community facilities across Durham will begin later this month - but they are confident its immediate future is safe.

A further review of the community centre is planned for the Autumn.