Looking to future of £5m centre
Reporter: MARINA BERRY
Date published: 26 January 2011
THESE artist’s impressions give a flavour of how Oldham’s new £5 million youth centre will look.
The first sod was cut last week to pave the way for a bright new facility for Oldham’s young people to call their own.
Mahdlo will soon begin to take shape on the site of the old Marjorie Lees Health Centre in Egerton Street. But there is still time for young people to make their mark.
Mahdlo Young People’s Development Group, which has been involved from the start in the design, will meet in February to discuss some internal features
Members came up with the idea of the youth centre’s name — Oldham spelled backwards — and will now deliberate on issues such as colours and finishes, and the design of the reception desk.
Project architect Mark Serventi said: “Young people contributed to the look of the building, and we are keen for them to continue to be involved as the scheme progresses.”
Lee Thompson (17), chairman of Mahdlo Young Person’s Development Group, said it had some fantastic, hard-working people among its members who were intent on making sure the youth centre was exactly what young people want.
Oldham’s business community has rallied round to support its, pledging cash towards the annual £1 million running costs of Mahdlo — although more are being urged to join the ranks.
Ten per cent of the running costs will be covered by the 50p entrance fee paid by children, and the youth zone will be open every day of the year.
Mahdlo will include a sports hall, outdoor pitch, boxing gym, fitness room, climbing wall, dance studio, small cinema area, cafe, covered patio and meeting rooms.
