Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? Historic Perth church now houses new youth hub at Y Centre.
A new state-of-the-art youth centre has recently opened its doors to the community in Perth city centre after a massive £6 million project transformed a vacant 130-year-old church building. The Y Centre, operated by YMCA Tayside, has been meticulously designed with input from the young people who will utilise the facility. It aims to provide a safe and engaging space for individuals aged eight to 25 while preserving two dilapidated historic buildings from demolition. The centre’s primary objective is to provide a place for young people to socialise, engage in activities, receive support, learn new skills, and build confidence to succeed in life.
The main youth centre is spread across three floors of the impressive church building on Atholl Street, featuring a digital skills hub, drop-in space, ‘The Well’ social enterprise shop, gaming zone, a gym, facilities for craft workshops, and quiet areas. An outdoor courtyard is also being developed, which will include a garden area centred around a restored historic well. The local coffee supplier, The Bean Shop, will be providing barista training for young individuals, with hot drinks available for purchase at the onsite shop.
As part of the project, transition and emergency housing have been established, with a £300,000 loan from Social Investment Scotland (SIS) contributing towards the provision of seven flats to help prevent homelessness. This initiative marks the first time the charity has offered accommodation with the aim of aiding young people in transitioning from supported and care provision to independent living.
Various funders have supported the broader Y Centre regeneration project, including The Gannochy Trust, Perth and Kinross Council, Scottish Government Regeneration Fund, Perth City Heritage Trust, The Robertson Trust, The Northwood Charitable Trust, and The Forteviot Charitable Trust, along with several smaller funders and individual supporters.
The newly opened centre is expected to benefit up to 2,000 people annually, and it will also serve as the headquarters for YMCA Tayside’s team of 15 staff and 70 volunteers.
Jill McGrath, CEO of YMCA Tayside, expressed her excitement about the completion of the Y Centre project, stating, “The Y Centre has been a project years in the making, and we are thrilled to see our vision come to life. Young people have a lot to offer but sometimes need extra support to find their way in life. That’s why it was crucial to involve them in the design and development of the new space. They shared their desires for the Y Centre, and we carefully listened to their input.”
“In recent weeks, we have conducted exclusive preview tours with young people, showing them how the space has transformed into everything they envisioned—a place they can call home. We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on their lives,” McGrath added.
Chris Jamieson, head of investments at SIS, commented on the impactful work of YMCA Tayside, emphasising the organisation’s role in providing vital support and services to young people in the local community. He highlighted SIS’s contribution to funding the establishment of temporary accommodation, which could potentially be life-changing for young individuals transitioning to independent living. Jamieson expressed pride in being a part of such a remarkable project and commended the readiness of the redeveloped centre for utilisation.
