‘Significant need’ for youth hub in town hit by antisocial behaviour

A Christian charity wants to create a youth hub, including a climbing wall and skate ramps, in a Cornish town where there are “real challenges” linked to deprivation and crime.

Oriel Ministries has applied for advice from Cornwall Council’s planning department about a proposal to convert the former Truscotts car dealership at Newport Industrial Estate, Launceston, to provide a new youth and community facility.

A supporting statement in the charity’s pre-planning application says: “The proposed redevelopment represents a sustainable, inclusive and policy compliant scheme that would deliver substantial benefits to Launceston and the wider community.

“It is believed there is significant need for such an improved facility, in this part of the town and in the wider area, where there are real challenges linked to deprivation, antisocial behaviour and crime. It is hoped that this project would help provide a positive, safe and constructive space that could make a real difference for young people and families who need support.”

The key elements of the proposal, which is likely lead to a full planning application, would include:

Youth centre facilities, including indoor social, art and activity spaces

Indoor sports and recreation facilities, including a climbing wall, skate and scooter ramps and a flexible indoor sports/arts hall area

Music and creative facilities, including a music studio

Outdoor sports provision, including a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA)

A café, open to users of the facility and members of the general public

A children’s play area, available for public use

Associated landscaping, lighting and parking improvements.

Only last week, during a Cornwall Council licensing sub-committee meeting, a resident of Launceston told councillors that residents are fearful of leaving their homes at night due to ongoing problems.

The opponent of a premises’ bid to serve alcohol, which was refused, said: “There are significant ongoing problems in the town centre in the evenings with alcohol-fuelled antisocial behaviour, violence and property damage causing residents to be frankly fearful of leaving their homes.

“We’ve had this on several occasions where we’ve had to report to the police and not be able to go out to evidence who’s causing it because of fear.”

Oriel Ministries is described as a well-established Christian charity which has been serving the local community for 16 years, with a strong and trusted reputation across North Cornwall, particularly in Launceston.

The planning statement adds: “They are passionate about giving back to young people and providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where they can feel valued, supported and encouraged. They have a proven track record of making a significant difference in the lives of young people through support, mentoring, positive activities, practical help and creating a place where they can belong.

“This work not only benefits young people directly, but also has a wider positive impact on their families and the surrounding community. There is a clear and growing need in the local area and this project would enable Oriel Ministries to expand its reach, strengthen its community provision and continue delivering life-changing support to those who need it most.”

For more details see pre-application PA26/00601/PREAPP on Cornwall Council’s website.

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