A MEETING has been held to discuss a way forward for Chatham's crisis-hit Buckmore Park, the scouting and sports centre.

The park closed down last week amid mounting financial problems. Youth and sports leaders were stunned by the move which was a major blow to thousands of young scouts and athletes across the county.

Financial pressures, plus the prolonged roadworks on the M2, have been blamed for the closure of the £15 million complex.

But plans are afoot to salvage a future for the site. The Medway Messenger newspaper is calling for the park to be developed by Medway Council and then universities as a national centre of sporting excellence.