The move comes at the request of the centre’s committee.

Horsham Rural City Council closed the centre at the start of December to review its safety standards.

The centre's committee was assessing historical paperwork and found there were possible irregularities with permits issued for the venue in the early 2000s.

Council’s community services director Kevin O’Brien said a decision was made to close the venue while a thorough assessment was completed, as there could be possible safety issues.

The committee gave council’s building surveyor permission to complete a fire safety audit of the building.

The committee has since met with council representatives to discuss the Fire Safety and Essential Safety Measures Audit Report from the assessment.

Due to the level of fire safety risk, a complete Building Code of Australia and Fire Engineer Audit of centre will be completed to check the level of compliance required for fire services.

Mr O’Brien said council was working closely with the committee to complete all the necessary steps. 

“There are a number of issues to work through and we will ensure that the committee is fully informed so that they can make the necessary decisions”, he said. 

Wesley committee secretary Merryn Eagle said safety would continue to be the group’s top priority. 

“These are complex and difficult issues for a volunteer organisation and we are working closely with council to determine the next steps,” she said.

“We gave council permission to carry out the audit. 

“We need to ensure that Wesley meets all the necessary safety standards and is safe for the community. 

“We thank the community for their understanding at this time.”

Mr O’Brien said council would provide regular updates to the community about the building and fire engineer audit.