A playgroup manager has raised concerns that Peel’s community could be affected if a museum and library were to relocate to the Philip Christian Centre.

Sarah Vincent, who runs the Peel Playgroup at the centre, contacted the local commissioners which is carrying out a preliminary check to see if the Leece Museum and Ward Library should be moved to the Philip Christian Centre (PCC).

She believes that the move could lead to less access to childcare and employment opportunities in the area.

’The playgroup is currently held within the centre and is a valuable and well respected establishment within the community,’ Sarah said.

’We provide child day care, which is already limited on the island and in the west, for preschool aged children and work with families within our community to provide children with a safe space to learn, build friendships and establish connections with local services.

’It provides employment opportunities for our staff and we have worked hard to create a space that is safe and fun for our children.’

She added that the centre provides sufficient parking for parents, as well as outdoor space for children to play in.

’I’m concerned that by not allowing us to take place in the Philip Christian Centre, we will not find another suitable place in Peel and our daycare facility, that has been established there for over 20 years, would have to close.

’I’m also disappointed to hear that the Philip Christian Centre would no longer act as a hub for our community.’

Other businesses and groups which use the centre’s facilities include: Weight Watchers; Peel Cadets; Combat Academy; Western Live at Home; Peel Community Church and more.

This month Derek Sewell, clerk of the commissioners, told the Manx Independent that the commissioners hadn’t made a decision about the move as ’it’s a preliminary idea’. He explained that the integration would help to ’deliver all our services from one site’ as it would link in with the town hall next door.