Louts’ home becomes a community centre

A DERELICT house that was once a hub of anti-social behaviour has been transformed into a community centre.

The property in Shakespeare Road, Derker once housed trouble-makers — now evicted.

The house will now be used for drop-in surgeries, run by Greater Manchester Police and First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO).

A hard-working group of youngsters from the local area even pitched in to help rejuvenate the FCHO-owned property.

The three-month pilot project aims to provide a central point for residents to contact the organisation about concerns in their local area.

Cath Green, FCHO chief executive, said: “The service demonstrates the commitment that both FCHO and its partners have when it comes to tackling any concerns residents might have including anti-social behaviour and housing issues.”

Derker has recently seen a spate of community crimes including arson and vandalism.

Organisers now hope that by opening the neighbourhood hub, it will be easier to engage with young people and provide guidance and support to deal with issues such as anti-social behaviour.

The hope is also to provide guidance on family or relationship issues, attainment or offending behaviour.

Budding young decorators from the Derker and Greenacres Youth Inclusion Project admired their handiwork as the centre opened its doors.

Oldham firm Johnston and Leyland Paints helped out by donating materials to complete the make-over.