Minister gives the Station the green light

Monday 14^th February saw Tim Loughton, Minister for Children & Families visiting Bristol to confirm that the Station, a major new £5.75million youth project will be funded through the myplace scheme. The project is receiving £5million from the Department for Education to transform an Old Fire Station site on Bridewell Island in the centre of Bristol in to a world class youth hub with state of the art equipment and comprehensive support services for young people. The Kingswood Foundation, who have been heading up the funding bid, believe the vision is about inspiring young people and giving them the best opportunities in life whatever their background.

During his stay Tim got the opportunity to tour the site, view the plans for the inspirational centre and meet some of the young people that the project will engage. In addition Tim was able to discuss with key partners their ideas and see that everyone is ready to deliver a world class facility that young people in Bristol and the South West can access, enjoy and be proud of. As well as young people other guests included partners such as local politicians, businesses and charities.

The Station will host state of the art technology and equipment for young people, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds. It will provide arts workshop spaces, a theatre and dance studios but as well as being a hub for creativity it will also allow young people access to other services they might need like counselling, sexual health or careers advice.

Sandy Hore-Ruthven, Chief Executive of the Kingswood Foundation said, "We are delighted to hear that all the hard work that has been put in to the planning of such a centre, by all the partners involved, has finally paid off. We are thrilled that Tim, who has been extremely supportive throughout, can come and see the fruits of this labour and get to meet those instrumental in making the dream a reality."

If you would like to know more about Station or are interested in partnership opportunities then contact info@kfl.org.uk or telephone 0117 947 7948.