A YOUNG people's centre in Locks Heath has been given a new lease of life after it was repeatedly targeted by vandals and suffered staffing shortages.

The Genesis Centre, in Centre Way, has been given a fresh look which the management hopes will be enough to get youngsters off the street and give them something constructive to do.

The re-launch comes just three months after the centre was forced to shut down.

Phyllis Sheldon, Hampshire County Council's district manager for youth services, said unruly behaviour and vandalism contributed to its closure.

She said: "There were certain areas that needed tightening up and that's what we have focused on.

"We are back with an improved centre for the young people of Locks Heath and this time they have to sign a membership contract. If they don't stick to it, we will ask them to leave."

The Genesis Centre opened its doors for the first time eight years ago to provide youngsters between the ages of 11 and 19 with somewhere to spend their spare time.

It has had a chequered past, with neighbours complaining about noise and yobs targeting the building, covering it in graffiti and disrespecting the staff.

However, the new look includes a caf and sports hall, along with two recording studios, and there are plans to set up a radio station.

Lucy Mace, 17, is one of the six staff members working at the centre.

She said: "The centre wasn't used properly in the past. But now it has a much better atmosphere. I enjoy working here because it makes me feel like I'm giving something back to the community in which I live."

Chris Jackson, 18, from Warsash, is in the band Harpoon Larson, who are recording an album in the recording studios.

He said: "The centre has a much more structured approach to behaviour of the people who come in. Now it offers a lot more to everyone and the studios are becoming more popular."

PC Clive Wilson, Locks Heath community beat officer, said: "The Genesis Centre has been sorely missed by the locals for the few months it was closed.

"It has reopened with ample trained staff and everyone will be welcome as long as they know the boundaries they must not breach. I'm certain it will be utilised fully and enjoyed by all the youngsters who visit it."

To find out more about what the Genesis Centre has to offer, call Kay on 01489 578997.