A LACK of town centre youth activities could see an empty town centre shop unit transformed into a community focal point.
The former Motorworld site on Sea View Road, Colwyn Bay, has been earmarked for development by the St Paul’s project.
The initiative, which was set up by Colwyn Bay youth worker John Reaney, aims to give young people a safe venue to enjoy social interaction.
Young people, youth workers, police and probation officers from across the town have jumped on board. It is hoped a youth cafe will be developed and the top floor of the venue will be transformed into a studio for dance, with space for art and education activities. The venue, which is planned to open from 10am-10pm, will create eight paid, full time jobs, with volunteering opportunities available.
Mr Reaney, who runs a youth group at St Paul’s Church, hopes to find funding of £5, 000 to register the scheme as a charitable project.
He said: “It will be open and accessible to every young person aged 11-25 in Colwyn Bay, and will potentially attract young people from the surrounding areas.
“Additionally, it has the potential to attract family tourism, with parents and carers confident that young people accompanying them on holiday will have safe and varied opportunities available through this project,” he added.
The scheme will run alongside Dan’s Den, which was set up after the death of 15-year-old Daniel Cleverley. The teenager and his 13-year-old girlfriend died in an arson attack whilst sheltering in a shed in Eirias Park. The charity are working to develop a safe and secure meeting place near the skate park for young people to undertake recreational, social, educational and personal development activities.
Mr Reaney hopes the Sea View Road venue will gain charitable status and will become self-sustaining, leading to social enterprise status. He: “The social enterprise for the project will be a youth café that will focus on healthy eating, drinking and lifestyle. Gone are the days of burgers and chips. Drinks will be designed on alcohol-free cocktails, smoothies, juices, and water.”
Jess Wright, 17, from Colwyn Bay said: “I just can’t wait for it to be built.There is nothing for us to do in Colwyn Bay.”
Chris Sale, an Old Colwyn youth worker, said developing the site is a ”fantastic idea.” She said: “There will be live music, a place for kids to hang out. People do not consider the kids, they have nowhere to go. I can’t wait for to see this happen in Colwyn Bay.”
Mr Reaney hopes to gain the support of parents and members of the public. To make a donation or to offer support call 07809701167 or e-mail youthproject@johnreaneyconsulting.com.
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