AFTER a long, uncertain future, Radcliffe's former town hall will be back in business by the end of the year. By November, the ornate old building will be transformed into 10 self-contained flats to be run by the Bury Young People's Housing Link. They will provide accommodation, advice, training, and preparation for living for 16-25 year-olds, all under one roof.

Two support workers will be based at the town centre project to offer positive back-up to the new residents.

Cllr David Neath, who is involved in Bury's own Youth Strategy said: "There have been one or two naughty rumours circulating Radcliffe about this scheme, and as usual they are a long way from the truth.

"The transformation of the Town Hall will not only bring an historic public building back into public use, but also provide a golden opportunity for many young people.

"These are people, who through no fault of their own, are in need of support, and this brilliant scheme will do just that. I for one cannot wait for it to open."

While living at the Town Hall, residents will have access to advice with an individually tailored programme of practical living skills.

There will be employment and training opportunities, practical assistance and advice. When the time is right, a resettlement service will help support individuals in the community.

Cllr Wayne Campbell added: "We are talking about offering help and advice to young people whose housing circumstances are insecure. I think what is just as important though, is that for the first time we will be able to offer this kind of support to young people from the Radcliffe area in their own town. In the past they have usually had to move away, which has severed long established ties with the community.

"All the young people in our town deserve to have every possible opportunity to improve their potential. That is what the Housing Link scheme is all about."

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