Two youth groups in the Burnham area which are run by Somerset County Council could be set to close, it has been announced this week.
Lympsham and Wedmore youth clubs are among 18 facilities which the cash-strapped council is seeking to close or hand over to the community to run.
The Conservative-run county council is cutting the budget for youth services by about 75 per cent over three years.
Cllr John Osman, cabinet member responsible for children and young people, (pictured) said the proposals would save £2.25m.
He said: “We are faced with tough choices to balance the budget after a harsh government settlement. Reducing Somerset County Council’s youth services will have an impact on some young people across the county.”
“I am sure though that many of these centres will continue to operate, and we are already in detailed talks with several groups and partners keen to explore alternatives.”
Of the 12 current county council owned youth centres, seven could be handed over to community or voluntary groups to take over and run.
More than 30 other community based youth groups are currently supported with the County Council, providing youth work staff or finance but held in buildings such as village halls and community-owned youth centres. Of these, 11 face closure although it is hoped though that many of these will continue to operate through support from volunteers.
