Cash to improve services for young

Youth centres in north Shropshire are to be revamped following a £140,000 cash boost.

Work is due to get under way to improve Market Drayton Youth Centre and Centre North East in Whitchurch after the investment from Shropshire County Council.

The scheme will see new furniture, offices and an IT suite at the centre in Market Drayton, and a new coffee bar and computer facilities at the Whitchurch building.

The work is being carried out as part of a county-wide scheme to breathe life into youth services, with centres in Shrewsbury and Bridgnorth also due to benefit.

The overhaul at Market Drayton Youth Centre, in Drayton Grove, will cost £62,000, and work at Centre North East, in Bridgewater Street, will cost £77,000.

Councillor Ann Hartley, cabinet member for children's services, said the move was aimed at providing better youth services across Shropshire and helping young people to develop new skills, as well as make friends.

"This investment reflects the county council's commitment to enhancing the range of services on offer to young people in Shropshire," she said.

"It is important that the county's youngsters are provided with modern youth centres fit for the 21st century and that they have been designed by young people for young people."