HUNDREDS of thousands of pounds will be poured into a project to provide better facilities for youngsters.

Plans have been submitted to build a new base for Youth in Romsey, estimated to cost £342,000.

The charity was launched in 1997 by the town’s churches and supports 200 youngsters aged 11 to 25 every month holding activities and helping with issues relating to education, employment, finances and sexual and mental health.

But it has outgrown its premises above Anya shoe shop in Bell Street and the organisation hopes their new home at Romsey Sports Centre will be more welcoming and accessible, enabling them to help more young people.

The purpose-built building will be all on one level, making it easier for wheelchair users and parents with pushchairs to visit.

It will also have car parking and bike storage for those who have to travel and the use of sports facilities enabling the organisation to hold sports clubs and outdoor events.

Project manager Wendy Herbert, said: “It’s fantastic news because a lot of things for young people seem to be closing nationally, so we are lucky to get this opportunity and the young people of Romsey are lucky to have it.

“With the new building, we can continue to do as much as we can for young people.”

Youth in Romsey hope work will start on the new building early 2015 ready to open before next summer.

For more information, log on to yir.org.uk.