PZN Youth CIC has successfully completed the purchase of their building on Alverton Street in Penzance, marking a major milestone in its mission to provide a permanent safe, accessible space for young people.
The contract signing took place on Monday, 1st December, with members of the local community, supporters, and partners invited to celebrate this achievement.
The purchase was made possible thanks to £61,183 from Cornwall Council’s Town Regeneration and Investment Programme (TRIP). TRIP is part of the Good Growth Programme, which delivers the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly.
The TRIP funding was the final piece of the puzzle, following extensive fundraising efforts. Additional support to purchase the building came from a GoFundMe campaign that raised over £63,000 through public donations, alongside contributions from philanthropic donors and grants from The Emily Bolitho Fund and Cornwall Community Foundation.
This new facility will offer much-needed permanent, indoor open-access space for youth activities in Penzance.
Cllr Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council's Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration and Investment, said: “I wanted to make sure this project got funding as I know Penzance needs facilities for our young people, especially indoor space. What they have done to raise their own money is amazing. They should be proud that they never gave up battling to achieve this. I wish them all the best luck going forward.”
Bek Breslaw, Director of PZN Youth CIC, said: “This is a dream come true for us and for the young people of Penzance. We are so grateful to everyone who supported us, from grant funders to local residents who helped raise the money. This building will be a space for young people to call their own.
“We are already looking to the future and working with architects on plans to extend and renovate the building and surrounding plot, which will enable us to increase our capacity.”
PZN Youth CIC will host an open afternoon on Wednesday 17 December, from 2–6pm, inviting the community to view the concept plans for the extension of the youth hub and share feedback. This is a chance for local residents to see what’s coming and help shape the future of the space.
The feasibility study for the proposed extension was also supported with £7,641 from the Good Growth Community Capacity Fund.
ENDS