Derelict Shrewsbury building to open as a youth hub

Pic shows (from left) Community Support Officer, Amy Clarke, Callum Forbes, Councillor Alan Mosley, Charley Freeman and fencing coach Steph Williams.

The former premises of local firm Salop Glass in the Castlefields and Ditherington area of Shrewsbury has been transformed into a centre for youth activities after the once empty building was given a new lease of life.

The first activities have now started at the building in Ditherington Road in advance of the official opening on Saturday 26 November 2011.

The local police team have set up fencing training sessions, which 12 youngsters are now enjoying under the leadership of local Community Support Officers and fencing coach Steph Williams.

Shropshire Councillor for Castlefields and Ditherington, Alan Mosley, had the original idea for transforming the vacant building, forming a partnership between local residents, Shropshire Council, Severnside Housing, the local policing team and most importantly, young people.

Steve Cunningham, senior community action officer for Shropshire Council, has co-coordinated the project, which will see the lively space deliver an array of features, including indoor BMX and skate ramps, basketball, pool and other positive activities as requested by young people themselves.

Volunteers from Shrewsbury-based Caterpillar Remanufacturing have worked hard with the preparation of the site ahead of its opening.

Councillor Alan Mosley said:

“This is a great facility, not only for local young people but also those from further afield, and thanks go to all the stakeholders involved.  It is excellent to see the project being used successfully and it promises to be a major asset for the area.

“We are also looking forward to the start of a 12-week Prince’s Trust team challenge here later in the month.  The Positive Activities Team will use the centre with young people and we have plans for a skateboarding club.  To support these exciting developments we would like to welcome additional volunteers to help the dedicated stakeholder staff, and anyone wanting to find out more should contact me by emailing alan.mosley@shropshire.gov.uk or calling 07967 657028.”