Youth Hub’s Future Uncertain Amid £100,000 Funding Shortfall

A new community youth centre’s future is in question after Pendle Council indicated it could not commit to covering a £100,000 funding gap. Bodies in Motion, a charity that operates a gym and cafe in Brierfield, Lancashire, received a £1.4m government grant this year. This grant was intended for the construction of a new garden and a two-storey youth hub in the adjacent town of Nelson. However, the charity reported that project costs have increased by nearly £100,000 since the initial funding application two years ago. The group had approached Pendle Council to bridge the financial deficit. Nevertheless, a council report stated that the authority was “not in a position to offer any financial support.” The council report also noted: “According to Bodies in Motion, this shortfall is despite ‘value engineering’ the project to make it as affordable as possible under current funding restrictions.” It further indicated: “Should Pendle Council approve a package of support, the Youth Investment Fund may also provide further funding.” However, the council expressed concerns that allocating funds outside its standard procedures “could set a precedent, raising expectations within communities that the council is able to award significant grants for community projects.” The report concluded by stating: “Although the council fully endorses such projects, unfortunately it is not in a position to offer any financial support.” The situation is scheduled for discussion by councillors on Pendle’s Nelson, Brierfield and Reedley Committee at their meeting next week.