IT has been announced that a day centre in Dursley will permanently close after more than 60 years. 

The Dursley Day Centre - located in May Lane opposite the library - will shut its doors for the final time on Friday, August 30.

The site - which opened in 1967 - is run by trustees and volunteers from Dursley and District Old People’s Welfare Committee.

The centre - which is also known as Number 15 May Lane - is usually open every weekday plus Saturday mornings for drop-in sessions for people over the age of 50. 

A number of factors have led to the closure, including the pandemic, rising costs and less footfall, the committee said. 

A committee spokesperson said: “Sadly, we have had to make the decision to close as from August 30, 2024. 

“Since Covid, the number of people using the day centre has dropped significantly, coupled with changes to the bus service resulting in less footfall passing our door and with rising costs, we cannot sustain the loss of income. 

“We have provided amazing support to the elderly over the past 60 years; the generous efforts of all those who have contributed in so many ways, is much appreciated.”

“Poignant” news says MP 

Reacting to the announcement, the area’s MP and Dursley GP Dr Simon Opher who works at the nearby May Lane Surgery said it was “poignant” news. 

“Many of my patients have used this excellent facility over the last 30 years and its proximity to May lane surgery has given us huge support,” he said. 

“So it is especially poignant to learn that the centre is to close. 

“Times change and people need support in different ways. 

“But this reduced demand in no way diminishes the huge contribution it and its staff have made over the past 60 years.

“I would like to thank all those who have worked here and given comfort and support to our local residents. 

“I personally shall miss walking past and catching up with old friends on the doorstep.”

History of the day centre 

The committee spokesperson added: “The centre dates back to the 1960s, with its roots in the 1950s.

“At a public meeting, sponsored by Dursley Rural District Council, in 1956 a steering committee was appointed to investigate the desirability of forming committees in the district.

"Several groups were formed, including one in Dursley. 

“Their main objective was to visit lonely old people. 

“Dursley and District Old Peoples Welfare Committee was soon active and after a generous offer from John Shapland, rented 12 May Lane and opened it as a Day Centre in 1965. 

“In 1967 the committee raised enough funds to take out a mortgage and renovate the house at 15 May Lane, which opened in May 1968. 

“With tremendous support from many local organisations and individuals it has continued to be a drop in centre for the over 50s until now.”