A FORMER haven for drug dealers could be turned into a drop-in centre for bored Horsforth youngsters.

Both The Friends of Hall Park (FoHP) and Horsforth Town Council's Community Working Party have discussed plans to convert one of the two adjoining toilet blocks in Hall Park into a drop-in centre, with the other block refurbished for toilet facilities.

The blocks have recently been reopened as toilets only in daylight hours after alleged problems with drug abuse.

Although some members of the working party have raised concerns at the proposals, David Read, chairman of FoHP and a town councillor, said that a drop-in centre would be a key facility for tackling youth-related problems in the township.

"There have been some question marks against having the drop-in centre there, but two youth workers would be available twice a week at the centre during the summer months. My own view is that it will need to be supervised.

"It is an idea that I am keen to see become reality in the next year. Horsforth youngsters need a place where they can go, have a drink and a snack and meet other youths. Workers can help youngsters with their problems and offer practical advice as well as putting on a range of activities."

Coun Read said that if the conversion went ahead it would also provide a base for a park keeper.

He hoped that some financing would be available from Leeds City Council, city councillors - who have said that they support the idea - and other sources and FoHP have requested a rough estimate of the costs involved.

At the working party meeting, councillors said that the facilities should be for all the residents of Horsforth - the elderly as well as youngsters - and concerns were raised about safety in the park and the vulnerability of users.

They also queried whether if there would be any hygiene issues because of the siting of the proposed centre.

Coun Read added: "Obviously there are some issues to be discussed, but I envisage this as a long-term project and it is still in its infancy."

Plans by Friends of Hall Park include employing a park keeper and introducing more activities, such as pitch and putt, to the park. Last year, the Friends and Leeds City Council opened a skateboard area for youngsters following a campaign.

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