Chapter 1 in partnership with Shekinah

Chapter 1 in partnership with Shekinah

 Torbay Rooute Project 

PRELIMINARY WORK STARTS ON NEW COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE CENTRE

 

After months of preparatory work behind the scenes, Chapter 1, in partnership with Shekinah and Torbay Council, are pleased to confirm that preliminary work is finally underway for the Torbay Rooute project. The new centre will be built on part of the site of the Old Coach Station in Lymington Road, Torquay.

 Although planning permission was granted a year ago, there were practical and logistical issues which had to be addressed before any construction could be started. In particular, a new home for the council’s CCTV control centre was required, as well as ensuring that the impact on the service was minimised.

 Chapter 1's operations director, Rachel Sanders, explained: 'Although the start of the work has been delayed, the plans for the Rooute project have not. The centre will be managed by Chapter 1 in partnership with Shekinah and has the backing of Torbay Council. It will house a range of employment, education and training initiatives for local people including, but not exclusively for, those who are disadvantaged. The innovative design will embrace the latest green technology.

'Over the next few months we're hoping to open the old café on the site so local people can go and see the plans and take part in an on-going consultation process. Our aim is to tailor the services provided to meet the needs of the whole community - not just the people who live in Torbay, but also the inbound tourists who are so vital for the local economy.'

 Simon Sherbersky, Chapter 1’s business development manager for the project, agreed: ‘This will be a fantastic new resource for the people of Torbay and there will be lots of opportunities for them over the coming months to have input into the facilities and services which the centre will provide.’

 Currently work is being carried out to prepare the site and to ensure that the taxi rank and coach station facilities, which are not scheduled to be moved, can continue to operate throughout the building process. Work on the new building will begin in the New Year. The contract for this work has not yet been awarded.

 Chapter 1provides accommodation and related support services to help vulnerable people enjoy a more fulfilled life.  It is a charity, based on Christian principles, which offers human compassion and practical support to meet people’s needs respecting their faith, culture and social background.  Currently Chapter 1 works in partnership with 29 local authorities and has a growing network of 40 projects across England.

Shekinahhelps re-generate lives.  The charity actively engages local teens and adults living in Plymouth and Torbay, equipping them with the skills, motivation, confidence and specialist support they need to fully integrate into and contribute towards community life.  It successfully raises personal aspirations and achievement through training, volunteering, social enterprise, innovation, employment opportunities and meaningful 'green' activities at its Growing for Life organic farm project in Paignton.

  

Further information:

Barbara Smith, PR Adviser– 01736 786421/07801 947897

www.ch1.org.uk  www.shekinahmission.co.uk