YMCA Highbridge opens its doors

20th February 2020 | News

YMCA Highbridge, an important new facility for the people of Highbridge, is officially open, following a highly-successful build by John Perkins Construction and its trusted partners.

The building was officially opened by Sedgemoor District Council Chairman, Cllr Peter Clayton, alongside YMCA Dulverton Group CEO, Martin Hodgson. Unveiling a plaque commemorating the building’s opening, Cllr Peter Clayton said: “This is going to be a real community hub for Highbridge.”

Rupert Perkins attends the official opening of YMCA Highbridge

Funded by YMCA Dulverton Group, Sedgemoor District Council, Homes England and EDF’s Accommodation Fund, the YMCA Highbridge development has seen the previously fire-damaged building transformed into a community café, sports hall, conference and meeting space, as well as 23 rooms of supported accommodation.

Martin Hodgson, YMCA Dulverton Group CEO, said: “YMCA Highbridge is the first of our community branches, which are the touchpoints for everybody in the community, no matter what your age or need. We are already seeing the impact this has on local people, from our sports sessions and stay and plays which have been held here over the last few weeks.”

The £3.1m project saw the redevelopment of a Grade-II-listed hotel, which dated back to the 18^th century but had been ravaged by fires and left derelict. The listed building restrictions remained in place and so the existing façade’s historical features were replicated, albeit within a modern and accessible building.

Rupert Perkins, Contracts Director of John Perkins Construction, commented: “It was truly uplifting to visit a new building that has clearly already been taken into the hearts of its community members. I know YMCA Highbridge will be a much-cherished resource for the future.”

Tags: Sedgemoor District Council, YMCA, Projects, Somerset, YMCA Dulverton Group, Third Sector, New Build, Heritage, YMCA Highbridge