THE £1 million fundraising project for Portishead Youth Centre redevelopment moves in to the final phase this month as the centre s management committee announces the target total is in sight.

THE £1 million fundraising project for Portishead Youth Centre redevelopment moves in to the final phase this month as the centre's management committee announces the target total is in sight.

Young people in the town have recently raised another £178 bringing their contribution to £2,500 to date, and Portishead Lions have raised a further £1,000. Both groups presented their cheques to the management committee last night (Tues) at the launch of the final appeal for £35,000 at the Harbour Road premises.

Once grant applications have been processed the management committee says £35,000 will be amount then needed to equip and fit out the refurbished building. Members are now asking businesses and residents to make one last effort so that the building can be fitted out to the highest possible standard, to create a centre that will meet the needs of young people and the community for the next 45 years as it has done since 1963.

Bishop Roger Sainsbury, chairman of Portishead Youth Centre Redevelopment Committee said, "The Youth Centre premises have always had the potential to be in use seven days a week.

"It is currently used for day time activities five days a week for everyone from toddlers to adults and open for youth club four and sometimes five evenings each week.

"The management committee hopes that once the building is refurbished it will be in use to benefit the community seven days a week.

"A new coffee bar area will be self contained and could be open to the public at any time, regardless to whether the rest of the building is in use."

The refurbishment of Portishead Youth centre will bring a very dated building in to the 21st century.

A new coffee bar, improved toilets, facilities for mums and babies and for disabled people are just some of the improvements the centre will see.

If any individuals or businesses would like to be involved in supporting the final phase of this project call Sue Maybury on 01275 842461.