A Minster community centre has decided to axe its manager as part of money saving measures.

Cheryl Mitchell, who has worked at New Road Community Centre since it opened in 2008, will be leaving her post at the end of June.

A statement issued last week by the centre’s board of trustees said the site in New Road, Minster, “has reached a crossroads” and decisions had to be made to move forward with plans to replace the current building – which consists of recycled prefabs – with a permanent one in the vicinity.

It goes on to say: “The board [of trustees] had only one option, it could either carry on paying for this service which would have resulted in the charity going bust or reduce its running costs by making the position redundant.”

Pat Wiggins, chairman of the board said: “This has been a really tough decision and one that was not taken lightly. The bottom line is it was costing more to fund that salary then the rest of the centre’s running costs put together and something had to give.”

The statement also says an enhanced redundancy package was offered and double the amount of notice required given.

Trish Codrington, treasurer and trustee of the charity, said: “Although we all are sad to be losing this employee and thankful for all they have done, there was no choice. The needs of the charity had to come first.”

Andy Booth, vice-chairman and trustee, gave assurances that there would be no change to current services.

Cheryl Mitchell declined to comment.

A public consultation on proposals for the new building will go out to residents in the Sheppey Central ward in the near future to find out what they want.

Anyone interested in joining the board or committee or with an idea that will enhance current services can call 01795 874034.