AN organisation providing support for North Cornwall’s young people is hoping to raise £25,000 for a state-of-the-art youth and community hub in Launceston.

Since 2009, Oriel Ministries has been working to provide community spaces for young people across the North Cornwall area. The independent Christian charity carries out events for young people, teaching about faith while also providing a safe and social space for the region’s youth to enjoy.

The organisation has argued that its work has become increasingly important over the years, due, in a large part, to ‘the rise of media, gaming and the online presence of this generation’.

The charity is hoping its work could continue to grow following the submission of a pre-application in June for the change of the former Truscotts car dealership in Launceston.

At the start of the year it was announced that the historic dealership was set to close its doors after more than 50 years of trading in the town, however, the site could soon become a hive of activity for the town’s young people.

The charity has revealed it is hoping to raise £25,000 in order to facilitate the creation of the space.

“On August 24, 2026, The Loft - our current venue - will close. Changes to the building’s use, access and operating costs mean remaining there is no longer sustainable,” said Chris Uglow, co-founder of the charity.

“Our work in schools is running smoothly, the Pulse Bus will continue, and we are working hard to maintain continuity for Shake Shop and our other venue-based projects. But if this work is to grow sustainably, Oriel needs a new home.

“The mission has not outgrown our hearts. It has outgrown the current space.

“We are raising an initial £25,000 to begin the practical, professional and preparatory work needed for a new Youth Activity Centre and Community Hub in Launceston.”

Prospective plans submitted as part of the pre-application (PA26/00601/PREAPP), would see the former dealership completely transformed, with the installation a climbing wall, skate and scooter ramps, flexible indoor sports and arts hall area, music and creative facilities, including a music studio, outdoor sports provision, including a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), a café, open to users of the facility and members of the general public, children’s play area, available for public use, and associated landscaping, lighting and parking improvements.

The charity says it is ‘passionate about giving back to young people and providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where they can feel valued, supported, and encouraged.’

Planning documents explain that plans would see the development largely reuse the existing building, but would also necessitate significant refurbishment, and with ‘internal and external alterations, designed to improve appearance, accessibility, security and functionality, of the site, to achieve a flagship youth-focussed community hub.’

Chris continued: “Your gift helps us take the first practical steps towards a new Youth Activity Centre & Community Hub - a place designed to create more room for young people, families and hope.”

Donations can be made via the charity’s JustGiving page.