Former Morecambe bus station transformed into hang-out for young people
The city council-owned building, close to an existing skate park and Morecambe town centre, had fallen into disrepair.
Earlier this year, the council agreed to the building, in Central Drive, being used for the purpose of a dedicated youth hang-out area.
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Hide AdThe aim of its new use is to provide young people with somewhere safe to socialise with their friends and reduce the likelihood of them being involved in anti-social behaviour.
The building was refurbished as a community project by Team 51 of Lancaster and Morecambe Prince’s Trust (delivered by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service) with decorative works being influenced by their own ideas and help from local artist Becky Burns, who runs her own business called Textile Candy.
New windows and wifi have also been installed with funding from the council and Police and Crime Commissioner.
The building will be subject to a regular management regime by both the city council’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team and Lancashire Constabulary’s Neighbourhood Policing Team to ensure the safety and security of those using the space and surrounding residents.
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Hide AdThe building will also be the subject of regular maintenance so that it remains an attractive space for those using it.
CCTV has been installed as a safety measure.
Coun Alistair Sinclair, cabinet member for community safety, said: “Having established there is a strong community demand in this area for somewhere safe where young people can come together to meet their friends and away from unsuitable locations, the opening of this facility is indeed great news.
“Thanks must go to the Prince’s Trust for all their ideas and hard work in ensuring that it’s a space that young people can call their own and will look after and enjoy.”
Charlie Brown, Princes’ Trust team leader, said: “This team of young people have worked really hard throughout the project and have battled to get it completed on time.
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