PORTISHEAD Youth Centre will throw its doors open to more user groups next month, following its transformation to a spacious, modern hub.

An open day on September 30 will allow members of the community to view the town’s newest facility, following the completion of major redevelopment work, which is currently in the final stages.

The Harbour Road centre has been closed since May for the building of new rooms, an office and new entrance. It is expected to officially re-open on October 3.

Full time youth worker Alan Rowe said: “The new extension means the centre can take more bookings and in addition to hiring a room or suite, user groups will be able to make good use of facilities like the state of the art coffee bar.”

A new rock school and Portishead WI will be two newcomers to use the premises from October and centre bosses hope more new bookings will follow.

This week it was revealed that one of the new additions to the centre will include a life skills room, with a full working kitchen.

Mr Rowe added: “Young people will be able to embark on cookery lessons or learn how to use a washing machine or do the ironing. Schools or private tutors can book the room to run courses to pass on these skills.”

The first phase of the redevelopment completed in 2010 saw the refurbishment of the administration area, consulting room and toilets. The centre’s media suite and multipurpose hall, which doubles as a dance studio, received an overhaul and a new coffee bar was installed.

Now with phase two almost complete, bosses at the centre are trying to raise �60,000 to upgrade furnishings and equipment. The Angel Appeal, launched in May, has already raised more than �25,000 but with only a few weeks to go, management committee members are appealing to residents to help them raise funds.

Events already organised include a sponsored toddle, which takes place tomorrow (Thurs) at Portishead Lake Grounds at 11am. An Angel Appeal family fun day at Clarence House in Portishead High Street on Monday from 1pm will include fun and games, barbecue, stalls, music and dance.

To find out more about the forthcoming events or the facilities at the youth centre, call Alan Rowe on 01275 842461.