CONSTRUCTION work is expected to begin on a new €1.8 million youth centre in Ballynanty in the coming weeks.
The controversial Limerick Youth Service centre has received a mixed response from the local community, however a spokesperson for LYS said the organisation is “delighted to be able to deliver a state-of-the-art Youth Space to the young people on the northside of Limerick city”.
The spokesperson continued: “It is difficult to understand how projects that benefit our young people could possibly be the subject of negativity.
“Limerick Youth Service has already embarked on a conversation with all interested parties. Constructive dialog is of benefit to all, with the youth of the northside are crying out for the Youth Space.”
“Limerick Youth Service were also greatly encouraged by the vote of the new Council in allocating the property to Limerick Youth Service, where we noted that almost all sides of the political spectrum supported the project”.
The Northside Youth Space will be home to Limerick Youth Service’s Youth and Family Support Programme, the Northside Youth Café, Ballynanty Garda Youth Diversion Project and a comprehensive Youth Information Service.
Ahead of the Council’s vote on the youth centre plans in 2013, the Ballynanty Residents Opposition Committee outlined their objections to the plans.
Among their concerns was the loss of green space in the area, fears over antisocial behaviour and traffic issues, as the site is adjacent to the only entrance and exit to Ballynanty, and the lack of consultation with the local community.
