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Calls to transform old fire station into youth hub

Ana da Silva
BBC News
Ian Longdon
BBC Radio Wiltshire
BBC A man wearing a dark blue hoodie, black jeans and grey shoes stands in front of the facade of an old building, behind him a big blue wooden door which is shut. It's visible the building is in need of repair.BBC
Orrey Pike is calling for The Old Fire and Ambulance in Calne to be converted into a new youth centre

A town councillor is calling for a disused fire station to be turned into a dedicated youth centre under plans to "reduce anti-social behaviour".

The proposal would see The Old Fire and Ambulance building in Calne, Wiltshire, converted into a "vibrant hub" that could host activities and workshops for young people.

Councillor Orrey Pike said plans were in its "very early" stages.

"Empty buildings are a wasted opportunity but even worse is leaving our young people with nowhere to go," he said.

In 2023, Calne Town Council took control of the derelict Grade II listed building from Wiltshire Council and revealed plans for a £250,000 revamp of the site.

At the time it was suggested the space could be used by community groups, however the building has continued to deteriorate over time.

Facade of old stone building with cracked windows and in need of extensive repairs
The derelict Grade II listed building is owned by Calne Town Council

Mr Pike said turning the site into a youth club could help reduce anti-social behaviour in the town.

"We can give them [young people] a space to learn, socialise, and develop skills in a safe and supervised setting.

"We want to give young people something to do and look to reduce crime."

It is unclear where funding for the refurbishment would come from and feasibility studies are yet to be discussed.

'Action, not words'

Calls for more local youth provision have been echoed by Wiltshire Youth for Christ, a faith-based youth and community organisation.

"There aren't the resources and opportunities for young people that there used to be," said youth worker, Steve Dewar.

Mr Dewar welcomed the idea to transform the old building into a youth hub, but said it needs to be followed by action.

"It's great when a town says 'we're going to do something about it', but we don't need words, we need action," he said.

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