Cork East Fine Gael TD, David Stanton has welcomed the announcement by Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan TD that he has given sanction to South and East Cork Area Development to approve €330,000 to develop a youth and community facility, My Place in Midleton. The funding will be provided under the Village Renewal and Development measure of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 to carry out the refurbishment of the existing old fire station in the centre of the town.

“I am delighted that this funding is being provided for this very worthwhile project. Midleton will now benefit from a facility which will allow young teenagers to meet and socialise in a safe environment. The facility will include youth café facilities, a network of support services which young people can avail of should they wish or need to, meeting rooms for a variety of community groups and a range of services for young people.

“There has been a huge need for such a facility in Midleton for quite some time. The project has received great support from Midleton Town Council, Cork County Council, SECAD and the community as a whole. There is still a funding shortfall but I am confident that the fundraising drive currently underway which is being well supported by households, businesses, clubs and organisations will easily raise the money required, given the good will and recognition of the need for the facility.

“I understand that the project will now go back to the Board of Board of South and East Cork Area Development Ltd. (SECAD) for final approval before construction will commence. It is hoped to have the project completed by the end of the year.