The transformation of Upton Lodge Farm House in Northampton from a rundown, derelict building to a first class community facility has been completed. The scheme will offer a fresh start in life to local disadvantaged young people, providing them with the skills, knowledge and confidence to lead successful lives. The YMCA will run the centre, which has been funded by West Northamptonshire Development Corporation (WNDC) and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

It will offer temporary accommodation, support and advice for up to 12 people at a time. Residents will also benefit from construction skills training through WNDC’s groundbreaking Construction Futures scheme. Local young people were directly involved in the renovation of the building, receiving practical training in a range of trades including carpentry, surveying and plumbing.

Chris Garden, Director of Regeneration at WNDC said, “The renovation of Upton Lodge Farm House has gone very well and it is really pleasing to see a derelict building being given a new community use. We’re delighted to support this scheme, which will empower disadvantaged young people to improve their prospects and look to the future”

Margaret Allen, Director for HCA East Midlands, said: “We are pleased to see the refurbishment complete at Upton Lodge Farm and look forward to the YMCA welcoming its first residents. The fact that it will offer training and guidance as well as quality accommodation to disadvantaged groups was a major factor in our support of the scheme.”

Peter Storey, YMCA Chief Executive said: “Northamptonshire YMCA is proud to have been invited to deliver this project. The transformation of the farmhouse into a residential property has been extremely successful and we can now begin to help with the transformation in the lives of young people through this community project.”

The southern section of the Sandy Lane Relief Road, which was delivered by the HCA with funding contributions from WNDC, has opened up the Upton Lodge area for development, including plans for up to 1,400 new homes and significant commercial development. In the longer term, Upton Lodge Farm will form part of the community facilities for the existing and future residents of the area.

Work started on Upton Lodge Farm in February after the HCA and WNDC pledged £318,000 and £214,000 to the scheme respectively. The HCA own the building and surrounding land.

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