My Space one step closer

By Melissa Meehan
PAKENHAM’S youth centre will be off to a flying start, now that a planning permit has been issued.
Councillors unanimously supported a motion to issue a planning permit for the youth centre (My Space) at Monday night’s council meeting.
Councillor Collin Ross said it was a privilege to be part of such an exciting project for the community.
“Not only will it provide young people with a place to go but it will also provide much needed support for families,” Cr Ross said.
“It is one of the most important facilities to be built by a council.”
Cr Ross said the council had budgeted $1.5 million for work on the site.
“It’s in a great part of Pakenham, close to schools, the main street and fast food outlets,” Cr Ross said.
“But its not just for the people of Pakenham, all people in the shire are welcome.
“My Space is a great extension for My Bus – the youth bus we have that goes to the outer areas of the shire.”
The centre will be used for various programs including, counselling, meeting, internet cafe and information and referral services.
Support services, including South East Drug and Alcohol Service, Taskforce Community Agency, Early In Life Mental Health Service and Windermere, have all expressed an interest to be based in the centre.
It is believed the centre will open by the end of 2012.