New £1.7m Youth Centre Nears Opening After Early Completion

Construction of a new £1.7 million youth centre concluded two months ahead of schedule, with its opening anticipated in the spring. Warden Construction has transferred the facility’s keys to Blackpool Council, marking the completion of its involvement in the initiative to establish enhanced amenities at the Gorton Street site within the town. The subsequent phase involves furnishing and equipping the structure prior to the relocation of the Blackpool Boys and Girls Club, an event coinciding with its 90th anniversary year. Jed Sullivan, a youth worker at the Blackpool Boys and Girls Club, stated: “Designed with our young people in mind, this state-of-the-art centre provides a safe and inspiring environment for learning, growing, and simply being themselves.” The previous, obsolete facility in the town’s Brunswick area was demolished earlier this year and has been succeeded by a single-storey, multi-purpose building approximately three times its former size. This new structure incorporates an activity hall, a canteen, office areas, a kitchen, and washroom amenities. Approved by town hall planners in April, this initiative is expected to facilitate an increase in youth work activities and opportunities for young individuals residing in one of Blackpool’s most disadvantaged neighborhoods. Funding for the project comes from a £1.7 million grant provided by the government’s Youth Investment Fund, which was initially announced in August 2023. Councillor Kath Benson, cabinet member for young people and aspiration, commented: “Young people from the Blackpool Boys and Girls Club helped to design the building and it is great to see their suggestions come to life.”