Young people will work with charity to create new space
Young people in Linwood are getting creative and setting up an exciting pioneering project to create a community space.
Linstone Housing and CREATE Paisley have developed the SPACE initiative which will see the youngsters plan and design the project.
And the former post office in Clippens Road has been earmarked as a possible location in the hope that funds can be raised to make it happen.
CREAT E ’ s p ro j e c t manager Alan Clark said: “We were so excited to be able to support the SPACE project this summer and to work with an inspiring group of young people to explore how we can creatively address the lack of spaces and opportunities for young people.”
The project involves young people aged between 11 and 15 in a series of workshops that have been taking place during the summer at the housing association’s offices in Linwood.
Later this year, they will be supported to raise funds to finance the new space.
Pupils from Linwood High School and St Benedicts’ High School have been examining plans, submitting their ideas and discussing what the new space will offer.
They have even been filming to make the case for the space.
Also participating in the summer workshops has been architectural design company New Practice who – like CREATE – have been guiding the young people.
The initiative has been organised by Linstone 20/20 – the housing association’s ongoing project to support communities, promote social inclusion and increase employment opportunities.
Shannon Baird, 14, said: “We learned a lot and were able to put forward ideas that we think will make the SPACE work.”
Another participant Liam Kay, 14, said: “Everyone had lots of ideas and it is good that we were able to offer our input. Hopefully, the SPACE will be created so that young people can use it all the time.”
Linstone chief executive Adele Fraser said the project gives young people a voice.
“We have identified a severe lack of low cost and locally accessible activities and spaces for young people aged between 13 and 19 to congregate safely in Linwood and we want to address that,” she said, adding:
“Finding out what young people want is the right way to go about this.”
“We are delighted with the contribution those participating in the workshops have made.
“They will be invaluable as we submit our application for funding later this year.”
Finding out what young people want is the right way to go about this