Basilon Street Youth Development Centre Set To Reopen After A Decade
After nearly a decade of closure, the Basilon Street Youth Development Centre is now on the path to reopening its doors to the young people of East Port of Spain.
On Thursday, the Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Phillip Watts toured the facility alongside representatives of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force and the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service, as discussions continue regarding reopening the facility.
Accompanied by Permanent Secretary Penelope Bradshaw-Niles, Minister Watts toured the shuttered facility on Thursday, and expressed deep concern over the near decade-long closure of the facility.
During the inspection, they outlined the remaining refurbishment work required to reopen the centre.
Both the Defence Force and Fire Service committed to completing all outstanding tasks and securing necessary approvals in the shortest possible time-frame.
Minister Watts emphasised that the facility represents opportunity and hope for young people in East Port of Spain, stating the goal is to ensure the centre reopens.
He also walked through the surrounding community, engaging with residents and listening to concerns from young people eager to participate in training programmes, including welding, electrical installation, and plumbing.
