RUMOURS that Otley's largest indoor venue is about to close have been scotched by town councillors.

Some users of Otley Civic Centre had feared water damage to the main hall would mean its imminent closure, but on Monday, the council's Civic Centre Committee moved quickly to firmly deny any rumours.

And chairman, Councillor Ray Dunn, added the future of the whole centre was bright with more help on the cards from owners, Leeds Development Agency, the property arm of Leeds City Council.

He said the first of regular meetings with Ralph Porter, venues manager for Leeds Leisure Services, had been held and future decoration, repairs and even re-wiring had been discussed.

As reported last month, Maureen Thackwray, who runs line dancing classes in the centre, said she may switch venues after seeing plaster fall from the ceiling of the main hall.

She complained that the centre was being left to run down by the city council.

And at Monday's meeting, Coun Christine Campbell said a member of the public had told her the hall was to close.

"If someone is going round saying this, they should be stopped, it will affect bookings, " said Coun Campbell.

But Coun Dunn said: "I can categorically state that the main hall is not going to close.

" I've had a meeting with Ralph Porter and at this stage I can reasonably optimistic that Leeds will look favourably on giving us financial help towards the redecoration of the hall."

Councillors heard that although the town council was responsible for the interior of the building, it was up to the city council to maintain the exterior. And it appeared water damage to the main hall could be due to poor guttering and drainage from the roof.

Coun Dunn added: "I've been assured that the hall is safe and operational.

"I've also been assured that this building is viable and essential for the community and that we will get help."

Coun John Eveleigh said the new working relationship with Mr Porter was a significant step towards future improvements at the centre.

"I think this is the most positive step forward we have had for many years with this building.

"Lets hope we are in a new positive footing with the city council.

"I understand that there is a £10 million backlog for repairs to buildings in Leeds. The city council has been neglectful with the exterior of the building, but the town council has also been neglectful - both councils need to do better."

A spokesman for Leeds Leisure Services said: "Further to liaison with Otley Civic Centre and Leeds Leisure Services, a series of meetings, which are scheduled to take place throughout the year, have been organised to discuss any current issues regarding Otley Civic Centre.

"Last week's meeting was the first of these and was highly successful."

l Meanwhile, people may soon be exchanging their wedding vows in the Civic Centre.

Councillors are considering renting out the newly furnished Chippendale Room for civil marriages.

If all goes to plan, it could mean a lucrative source of revenue for the town councli - and possibly help maintain the centre.

At Monday's meeting of the Civic Centre Committee, chairman, Councillor Ray Dunn said he had been told similar venues charged up to £200 for a wedding.

He said the council would need to apply for a licence but that cost £750 which was non-refundable if the licence was not granted.

Councillors agreed to compile a business plan taking into account expenses such as cleaning.