THE Redditch YMCA is to undergo its first major overhaul and extension in 23 years as it looks to expand and modernise its ageing facilities, writes Julian Seva.

The organisation, based in Church Hill Centre, has already appointed architects to produce new designs for its premises and users and residents are to be involved in the process to ensure all needs are catered for.

Once finalised, the plans could see exciting new sports facilities as well as multi-function meeting rooms.

YMCA chief executive Ian Barcham said: "This is going to be a really exciting challenge for the YMCA.

"Over the last few years, we have realised our existing premises are no longer entirely suitable for our needs and this will bring tremendous new opportunities for ourselves and our clients."

Work is likely to get under way early next year once consultation is complete and new designs approved.

Wolverhampton-based architects Alan Cotterell Practice have wide experience of developing community-based buildings, having worked with local and national schemes.

It will glean ideas for the project from questionnaires, discussion groups, open evenings and displays across town.

Funding for the overhaul is set to come from various sources, with likely council involvement and a possible National Lottery application.

Operations manager Peter Sugg said: "We recognise a lot of our clients have been using our premises for many years and as well as consulting them about the future needs, we are taking great care to plan the changeover to ensure our programmes and events will be able to use other local venues to ensure continuity and activity."

The centre opened in 1978 and has remained unchanged except for a few minor alterations and repainting.