Whelan’s £6.5m Wigan youth centre gets green light
THE £6.5m Wigan Boys and Girls Club, backed by local businessman Dave Whelan, has been granted planning permission by Wigan Council.
The Wigan Boys and Girls Club is the brainchild of Mr Whelan, who has – with Martin and Bill Ainscough – donated over half of the £6.5m development costs.
Designed by the Liverpool architects Austin-Smith:Lord, the youth centre will feature recreational facilities, sport, music and art studios, a climbing wall, all-weather pitches and improved public spaces.
The 3,400 sq m development will feature a combination of brickwork and glass, designed to reflect the look of existing buildings in the area while also giving a modern feel. The external glazing will be illuminated at night, creating a glowing effect.
Phil Jervis, project director for the scheme at Austin-Smith:Lord, said: “This has always been an ambitious project and our main challenge was to create a design which appeals to young people and is sensitive to the surrounding area.
“We have worked closely with heritage bodies, the council and local young people, to deliver something that Wigan can be proud of and are delighted to see the scheme moving forward.”
Up to 3,000 young people are expected to benefit from the new facilities, which will occupy new purpose-built accommodation at Mesnes Field in Wigan town centre.
It will be run by a new local charity, which is being advised by OnSide North West – a regional charity with its roots in the Bolton Lads and Girls Club. The scheme is OnSide’s first youth centre to be largely-funded by private sector money.
Construction is due to start in autumn 2010, with the club set to open its doors to Wigan’s young people in autumn 2011.
