Route81   Youth Project

Route 81 Youth Project was established as a partnership initiative between Garelochhead & Portincaple Community Trust, Garelochhead Parish Church and local young people in response to the lack of opportunities for young people in the area. The need for improved youth provision was also identified through consultation carried out with every household in the area where this was identified as a major priority to improve quality of life and encourage new people to settle in Garelochhead.

Route 81 Youth Project currently meets in the local church halls and provides a varied programme of activities from social outings, sports & other recreational activities, community based, inter generational & citizenship projects and training and employment focused events.

As a community based organisation, programmes and general running of the Project is achieved with input of young people and local adult volunteers to ensure the service meets local needs.

Route 81 Youth Project is restricted in terms of the impact it can make in improving the quality of life for young people and the wider community due to the lack of dedicated, appropriate facilities. Currently the organization shares office and meeting space with other user groups based in the Church Halls. Route 81 are now progressing the development of a dedicated Youth Facility in Garelochhead converting a derelict Outdoor Centre for this purpose which will create dedicated youth space and include provision of IT / Learning Area, Gym & Fitness Hall which will create a resource for the wider community.

    A Business Plan and Feasibility Study have been prepared which indicate the need for the project, anticipated users and services and a way forward for the group to create an achievable and sustainable project. The Centre will retain many of the original Outdoor Activity functions which will offer a commercial aspect to the project, generating income to cover running costs and to subsidise youth and community use of the Centre.

Route 81 Youth Project has secured Big Lottery Funding covering 100% acquisition cost of the derelict building and 50% of refurbishment / adaptation costs. It is anticipated the Centre will be fully operational by May 2010 provided we get match funding for the deficit to refurbish.

If you wish to find out more about the project and/or would be interested in becoming a volunteer please contact Michelle or Val on 01436 811100 who would be delighted to hear from you.