Under the direct management of Glasgow Community and Safety Services (GCSS), the much-needed community centre, in the city’s Milton area, will focus on providing young people with a variety of sports and activities in a youth club environment.
GCSS, established by the City Council last year to take forward crime prevention measures and tackle anti-social behaviour, aims to raise activity levels of young people in the area by engaging them in stimulating and challenging pursuits.
It is hoped that the centre will act as a focal point for the local area, helping to engender a sense of community and reduce incidences of anti-social behaviour, which have previously blighted the centre and neighbourhood.
Milton residents will also be encouraged to participate through plans to recruit and train volunteers to work and become involved in the centre.
Operating seven days a week, Ashgill will be staffed by 9 full-time and 8 part-time staff, operating on a two-shift pattern.
The centre will open 8.30am to 10pm through the week and 11am to 10pm during the weekend, although longer-term, the centre’s hours will be tailored to suit the needs of the community.
Councillor Archie Graham, Executive Member for Culture and Sport, said: "Recreational facilities are badly needed in this area, particularly for children and young people, and Glasgow City Council is committed to providing those services. The new centre will provide a range of exciting and challenging coach-led sporting and leisure activities for children. In addition, we aim to use these services as a way of diverting young people from behaviour which may lead to criminal activity. We will be working with local colleges and training agencies to encourage young people into the world of training and employment.
"However, the accommodation has to be appropriate, that is why we are spending more than £260,000 in improving the condition and security of the building. We have every confidence that Glasgow Community and Safety Services will ensure these services have a positive impact on the lives of the people in this part of the city."