COMMUNITY activities for those with complex needs will relocate, if a move is given the go-ahead.

Talks have been taking place between Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) and Hampshire County Council on the future of the Andover Day Service.

The county council has said that there is a need for a community link in the town, which would provide a range of daytime opportunities for adults with complex needs, similar to those already provided.

But as part of the transformation, the services would move from its current home on Portway Industrial Estate to a building in Union Street. The exact unit has not been revealed by either authority.

The building will, however, provide a large open multi functional space, kitchen and two accessible toilets, but, according to county council documents, work would need to take place costing around £50,000.

TVBC finance portfolio holder, Councillor Peter Giddings said: “The council has a long and successful partnership with Hampshire County Council through our ‘One Public Sector Estate’ project. This partnership ensures our two councils can work together effectively in order to make the best use of our properties across the borough.

“As part of this project, discussions have taken place regarding the Andover Community Link service and the possibility of it relocating to Union Street from its base in Portway Industrial Estate. The feasibility of such a move is yet to be fully explored and no decisions have been made by Test Valley Borough Council.

“The council will continue to work together with Hampshire County Council to ensure the best possible delivery of its many services in Andover, including the community link.”

TVBC has also offered its services to negotiate terms to allow the county council to get out of its Portway tenancy early.

Hampshire County Council’s executive member for adult social care and health, Councillor Liz Fairhurst, said: “The county council is changing the way community-based support is provided for people with learning disabilities.

“As part of this, we are looking at the accommodation in which current services are based and whether this is in the right location for the type of support those who use our services tell us they would like.

“In the case of our service in Andover, this is currently provided from accommodation on the edge of an industrial estate.We are currently in the process of exploring alternative venues closer to the heart of the community with easy access to local amenities and travel services. Discussions on possible options began in spring last year, and are ongoing.

“Once a final decision is made, which we expect to be in the near future, we will be talking with those who use our services, their families and carers, ensuring they have plenty of time to familiarise themselves with the new surroundings before the move is made.”