A dedicated multi-purpose youth center, which will merge current local youth services plus a few more under
one roof, looks set to go-ahead in Stratford.
``It is definitely going to happen. We are just not sure about where, yet,'' says Stratford Youth Services manager
Ellen Hall. It is envisaged that building the million-dollar plus complex might start as soon as late this year, but this is not yet set as there is still many variables to work through, she adds.
The Stratford Youth Trust is currently evaluating eight sites about town, and is currently in negotiations with the TET Sports Trust and the Stratford District Council.
The center was the brainchild around ten years ago of Nick Allwright, the then deputy chairperson of the Stratford District Youth Council; supported by chairperson Kate Whareaitu, currently community development manager at the council.
``It has been a long time coming, and it is great to now see it come to fruition,'' says Kate.
Preliminary architectural plans have been drawn up which include event space for the youth council; offices for Health Services and Social Services, Youthworks and the Central and South Taranaki Youth Development Trust; a computer suite; the Lion's Den with an international size boxing ring and space for kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu classes; kitchen for cooking classes; and huge recreational space which flows outdoors to a barbeque area.
``We wanted a place where young people not only can have loads of fun, but where they will be able to upskill, feel safe and have access to some-one they can trust and talk to,'' says Simon Howard, Police project leader. Youth
Trust trustee David Dent adds that the perception that such a facility is only for troubled youth is wrong.
``All young people are at risk, one way or another. Our vision is that the center will be an asset for the community, owned by the community - something they in fifty years' time will still be proud of.''
The center will not be a drain on rates as it will make use of grants, existing funding towards the various groups and projects, and fees generated by private public use of the facilities, Ellen says.
``Watch the press for more information in the coming months as it comes together,'' she says, inviting persons or businesses that want more information or to donate towards the project to contact her at (06) 765 8927 ext 3.
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