Centre rises from flames

A NEW youth centre has emerged from the ashes of the old Limehurst Youth Centre.

In January, 2008, the single-storey building in Farm Road, Limehurst, was destroyed in what was believed to be an arson attack and it was bulldozed following the blaze.

Almost three years later and the club has reopened as the Limehurst Integrated Youth Centre ready to provide a wide range of opportunities to young people aged eight to 19.

The centre offers services for young people from Limehurst and Hollinwood from Monday to Saturday.

It has been redesigned following consultation with local young people with features including cooking facilities, a large summer house, a projector for film events and plenty of space where young people can meet and socialise.

There is full disabled access, CCTV and other security features.

Councillor Mark Alcock, cabinet member for Citizens and Neighbourhoods said: “The damage to the centre was significant and it has taken a great deal of time and money to have it rebuilt. However, I am absolutely certain that it was the right decision and I would like to welcome local young people back to their centre.”

Activities are provided by Oldham Council’s Integrated Youth Service, the Youth Inclusion Project and Positive Steps Oldham.

Sessions include a mother and toddler group on Monday from 10am to 12.30pm, a junior youth club on Wednesdays and Fridays, 4 to 6pm, and a senior youth club on Wednesdays, 6 to 9pm, and Fridays 6 to 8pm.

Youth inclusion schemes for young people who have left mainstream education will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and there are plans to invite different community groups to use the building.

For more information visit www.ouroldham.info