Conjuring up new facilities for youth

Community leaders have teamed up to take over the building at the back of Sherbourne Road to create youth facilities in Claremont.

An open day is being held on Saturday between 11am and 3pm to showcase the building ahead renovation beginning in September.

Claremont councillor Lynne Williams, who has helped pull the project together, said: “It is due to open its doors in Claremont thanks to the hard work of a dedicated group of people, who have campaigned hard to bring this much-needed youth facility to the area.

“It will create volunteering opportunities, employment and much needed youth provision.”

Organisations including Blackpool Council, Business in the Community and the Transience Programme have played a part in bringing the building back into use.

Repairs will be carried out by volunteers from Volunteer It Yourself (VIY) which challenges young people aged from 14 to 24 to learn trade and building skills by working on real projects.

Ed Selwood, from VIY, said: “We’re very pleased to be transforming an old magicians club into a full-time youth and community space.

“Youth provision in the area is at the bare minimum, with young people having nowhere to go and socialise outside of school.

“As well as the space itself, VIY will benefit the young people taking part in the renovations, through improving their employability and helping them find apprenticeships and employment.”