19 November 2013
The capital spending provision in the proposed 2014 Budget includes £2.5 million to support the redevelopment of St James’ Church and Vicarage.
If funding is approved, the vicarage would be refurbished to accommodate the staff currently housed in the Central Youth Office and the Town Area Youth Office, creating a more unified Youth Service, and enabling staff to work more effectively and efficiently together. This follows the successful adaptation of St James School to accommodate the Prince’s Trust and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award activities.
St James’ Church would primarily serve as a facility for the Youth Service for performances, workshops and projects that enhance the arts opportunities available outside schools. The facility would also be available as a performance space for other arts groups and third parties.
Another key objective of the project will be to preserve the character of the listed buildings in any construction work that is undertaken.
Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources Deputy Eddie Noel said “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to refocus our efforts on the Youth Community. La Motte Youth Centre, currently the only youth centre in town, is very well used and offers an advice and counseling service. “The importance of providing young people with an appropriate, safe and friendly place to spend their free time is a good use of capital spending at a time when it is vitally needed to benefit the economy.”
The Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, Deputy Patrick Ryan, said “The youth service is one of the jewels in our crown. The La Motte Youth Centre has gone from strength to strength in recent years, providing vibrant and innovative activities. This investment will benefit the community and ensure that our young people have a bright future."
The total capital spending provision in the 2014 Budget is approximately £90 million.
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