A taxpayer-funded public poll on the future of a sports club will not prevent the council taking over the running of the facilities, it is has been announced.

Ongar Social and Sports Club, in Love Lane, is currently run by a committee made up of members of the community.

But, in a controversial move, the town council is planning to end the current arrangement when the lease expires in February 2015.

A recent planned parish poll on the club’s future was postponed on a legal technicality.

Councillors were advised not to attend as organisers had not signed publicity notices.

A rescheduled poll will take place on November 13, at Zinc Arts Centre.

But while the council has confirmed it is obliged to foot the £5,000 bill for the poll, the result is not binding.

Council chairman Cllr Diana Roberts said: “The council is committed to the continuation of sporting activities on the site”.

She continued: “The Council has recently appointed a manager for the site, Mr Angus McKenzie, who will be assisting the Council to deliver its vision to enhance current sports and to encourage new activities and uses for all Ongar residents to enjoy.”