Telford landmark's restoration a step nearer

The former Gower Street Youth Club in St Georges had been due to be knocked down to make way for development.

But the building's future was secured after a campaign and it was granted listed status in May last year by the National Heritage Society.

It was built in 1873 as a hospital for local miners and later became a youth centre. But it has gradually been falling into decay.

Now members of the Gower Street Heritage and Enterprise group say are determined not to allow the building "slowly crumble to dust".

They today pledged to see the building turned into "a self-sustaining jewel of St Georges".

A group continued work at the weekend, spending time clearing debris from the site.

Martin Clegg, one of the members, said: "Three skips of detritus were cleared from the interior two main halls, the stairs to the rear of the building and the upper floor is just too unsafe to attempt as yet.

"Through relentless fundraising the Gower Street Heritage and Enterprise group is close to bringing in restoration experts. It is hoped to turn the centre into a useful and self sustaining jewel of St Georges.

"Ideas are actively being sought and include a conference centre, a centre for scout organisations, coffee morning venue, cinema, wedding venue and many more ideas must be out there. Suggestions are welcome and will be considered."

Last year, after seven years of neglect, the Grade-II listed building was scheduled for demolition. Telford & Wrekin Council had reached a deal with the Wrekin Housing Trust and Lancroft Developments to build houses on the site

But an intervention by residents, ward councillors Richard Overton and John Minor and the heritage group, ensured the building remained in community use.

It was set to be given a £650,000 refurbishment as part of Telford & Wrekin Council's plan to regenerate the area. Most of that money will be spent on the Gower building itself and the plan is for it to house a range of community services and possibly some small businesses. For more details about the heritage group see www.gowerheritageandenterprise.com