A YOUTH organisation is about to open a new hub in Barrow.

The Drop Zone will be relocating to a new base in Abbey Road which will see it increase its capacity and to provide a range of services for children and young people under one roof.

The property - formerly known as Lakeland House - has been taken over Barrow Borough Council using grant funding from the Government’s Towns Fund Accelerator scheme.

The announced came soon after the need for a youth hub in the town centre was identified as a priority by Drop Zone.

This was supported by the newly formed Furness Youth Work Partnership - a group of charities, bodies and representatives linked to services for children and young people in the area.

Councillor Beverly Morgan, Barrow Borough Council’s spokesperson for children, young people and families, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved.

“The team at Drop Zone do an excellent job in making sure our young people are able to access the provision, space and support they need to learn, develop new skills, be empowered and to reach their potential.

“Bringing youth organisations together as the Furness Youth Work Partnership has strengthened the voice of young people in our area which has helped to bring about projects like this.

“I look forward to seeing the new hub in Abbey Road up and running as soon as possible.”

Cath Corkill, from Drop Zone, said: “We’ve known for some time that a location in the town centre would be best for young people, particularly if it was near to public transport.

“We are very excited that this has now become a reality so the hub can host services from a range of organisations seven days a week.

“Our thanks go to Barrow Borough Council for listening and making this happen for our young people.

“Working in partnership with a number of excellent organisations across the borough will ensure we are able to make a difference to the chances of everyone who comes through our doors."

Councillor Anne Burns, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, is excited for the hub and wishes the group luck in their future.

She said: "I think it's long overdue for a youth hub. It's close to the town centre, away from residential areas and close to bus stops so it's a good base to operate from.

"The Drop Zone do amazing work and I am excited for their future and all the work they will be able to do with young people in the area."