PIGEONS have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage at a Nailsea youth centre which is now undergoing a major refurbishment.

Youth House in High Street is being repaired and redecorated to the tune of �70,000 to rectify problems created as a result of a bird infestation in the roof.

The pigeons had inhabited a roof space between the North Somerset Council-owned building and a neighbouring property, breaking guttering and allowing water to leak in.

This caused damage to an office space on the first floor, the ground floor kitchen and furniture, as well as other parts of the building.

As a result, the inside of Youth House is being completely redecorated and repairs made to the roof.

Some repairs are also being made to areas affected by years of wear and tear. The kitchen is undergoing a complete refit, to include a new extractor hood and ventilation ducts which will replace those which had been in the building since it was used as a butcher’s shop. The white goods have been retained and will be re-used.

External work surfaces are also being redecorated and new sinks are being installed in two rooms.

A North Somerset Council spokesman said: “The work is being conducted as part of the council’s rolling programme to review the condition and suitability of the buildings it owns and leases.”

To allow the refurbishment to take place, Youth House closed its doors in June and is expected to reopen in September, when youth sessions funded by Nailsea Town Council will return, along with sessions for children and young people with additional needs.

Council staff currently based at offices in Clevedon Walk are also expected to move into the updated building.

The spokesman added: “Consideration is also being given to using the space to provide an additional venue for services provided for families and children aged under five.

“These will continue to be operated from and within the Nailsea and Backwell Children’s Centre at the Kingshill Primary School site but the additional space will prove invaluable when seeking to meet the needs of local families.”

While Youth House is closed, youth workers have been carrying out street work which has seen them visiting areas popular with youngsters, including the shopping area, parks and the skate park.