THE chairman of Burley-in-Wharfedale's Youth Forum warned this week there was no quick fix solution to the issue of young people's facilities in the village.

Bob Jones, along with representatives of Burley Community Council, Bradford Council's Youth Service and the Shipley Area Panel, attended a meeting at Burley Youth Centre to examine ways forward.

Each of the organisations is committed to improving facilities for young people in the village but Mr Jones believes there is a long way to go before an ideal solution is reached. He warned that the youth centre in Sun Lane was not equipped to meet the demands of today's youngsters.

Earlier this month he questioned whether the centre's lack of use meant it had a long-term future. He said: "I am pleased that everyone involved seems to be singing from the same hymn sheet, as it were. There is a will from all parties to come to some agreement," he said.

Mr Jones said no concrete proposals had yet been put forward but he was determined to make sure any 'promises' made by the council would be confirmed in writing.

The Youth Forum is committed to raising funds to provide a skating area and 'dry pub' for youngsters but Mr Jones is keen to see the partnership with Bradford Council's youth service develop.

"At the end of the day, this about providing our youngsters with the facilities they want and will make use of," he said.

The council's youth service is delighted with the enthusiasm shown by numerous sections of the Burley-in-Wharfedale community and has hinted that future developments could include the establishment of an information point for youngsters. Mr Jones also thinks there may be an opportunity to link youth and career services.

Mr Jones said all those involved had now gone away to consult their respective groups and prepare for a future meeting to examine specific ideas.

However, he reiterated there was no question of youth provision being transformed overnight in the village.

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