A day centre for the elderly that has been shut for almost a year could reopen this summer.

Diss Mercury: The Denny Centre in Diss could be re-opening this summer. PHOTO: Google MapsThe Denny Centre in Diss could be re-opening this summer. PHOTO: Google Maps (Image: Archant)

The Denny Centre, on Thomas Manning Road in Diss, closed its doors in March 2018.

It was previously run by Age UK Norfolk, which said thew money it cost to run it could be better spent elsewhere.

The centre, which had a restaurant, information centre, health and beauty sessions, and a garden, may now be taken over by Empanda Care and Support, a not-for-profit East Anglian company.

Working in partnership with Norfolk County Council and Saffron Housing Trust, Empanda is keen to hear from people who might be interested in joining the day centre.

Diss Mercury: Age UK service users at the Denny Centre in Diss playing with their new deck shuffleboard before the Centre shut down last year. PHOTO: SubmittedAge UK service users at the Denny Centre in Diss playing with their new deck shuffleboard before the Centre shut down last year. PHOTO: Submitted

A spokesman said: 'In January 2017, Empanda took over a day centre in Suffolk which was facing closure and, by working with partner organisations, has successfully turned it around and created a lively and energised hub not only for older people but for the whole community.

'Plans for The Denny Centre are along similar lines and they are currently getting to know the local groups and organisations who are active in Diss to enable them to offer day care customers an interesting and stimulating programme of activities and entertainment.

'Whilst there is still a lot to do to get the building ready, Empanda is hopeful the centre will be able to open its doors once again this summer.'

Empanda also provide supported housing in north Norfolk for young homeless people, and respite care and supported living services for adults with learning disabilities in south Norfolk and Breckland, as well as a community café, a men's shed and a community allotment.

Trevor Wenman, mayor of Diss, said: 'The Denny Centre has always been a very useful thing for the people in Diss, particularly carers of the people who us the centre, just having somewhere like that for them to be looked after for just a few hours a week.

'It is good news that they are doing this. The council wishes them good luck, and will watch their developments with interest.'

For more information contact daycare@empanda.org.uk, ring 01603 552102, or visit www.empanda.org.uk.