A community hub which supports vulnerable adults is still waiting for a boiler replacement 20 months after it broke - because the council is holding out for a "net-zero approach".

The boiler at Independence Matters at Dereham Community Hub broke on February 22, 2022, and it is still yet to be repaired amid falling temperatures - which reached just two degrees on the morning of October 16.

Norfolk County Council manages the building on Rash's Green Industrial Estate - but rather than repair or replace the boiler with a new one, a spokesman said they were trying to find a solution in line with their environmental targets.

Dereham Times: Independence Matters at Dereham Community Hub, on Rash's Green Industrial EstateIndependence Matters at Dereham Community Hub, on Rash's Green Industrial Estate (Image: Google Maps)The council has provided electric heaters, but Hazel Simms - whose sister, Joanie, has been attending the centre since it opened its doors, 38 years ago - said the centre really needed a new boiler.

Mrs Simms said: “This has been going on for too long, the council had all summer to sort this out and we’re now in October.

“These are the most vulnerable people.

"My sister is 74 and it is getting to the point where I cannot send her in to sit in her coat.

"She has osteoporosis, and it is getting to the point where she cannot go because I’d be neglecting her.

Dereham Times: Judith Anderson, who attends Independence Matters at Dereham Community Hub, Hazel Simms and her sister, Joanie Armiger Judith Anderson, who attends Independence Matters at Dereham Community Hub, Hazel Simms and her sister, Joanie Armiger (Image: Hazel Simms)“If it was a school they would close it down. These people are the most vulnerable and must be helped.”

A county council spokesman said: "Norfolk County Council are aware of the issue with the boilers at the Dereham Community Hub and a mobile temporary boiler system will be installed early next week for a period of 27 weeks.

"Work continues to find a long-term approach which aligns with the council’s net zero approach and provides the best solution for all stakeholders.

"We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused in the short term.”

Independence Matters - which runs support centres across the county - declined to comment. 

Th service works to empower individuals, their families and carers, to live the lives they choose and remain independent, offering social interaction and opportunities to make new friends.