After 19 months of fundraising The Breakers Project came a step closer to opening this week when Wilkos agreed a contract to release the keys.
Once this has been signed by Wilkos and Breakers CIC the next stage can start with the clean up, redecorating and refitting the former bowling alley.
“We are hoping to get keys, possibly by the end of next week! This means we can get in, clean, repair and start the exciting tasks of getting Breakers CIC reopen – hopefully for Halloween this year!” said Anji Gillies.
Fellow director James Neal was also pleased with the progression made.
“Delighted this has happened after all the hard work that has been put in and I trust local businesses and tradesmen will support us in the renovation towards reopening” he said.
The idea to re-open Breakers was instigated by Debby Beatson and Anji Gillies both of whom wanted to have a facility for local teenagers after a spate of suicides.
Breakers CIC has been working with Andover College, local charities including Andover Mind, PAPYRUS, The Junction and many more, all of which have backed and support the project.
Breakers was setup as a CIC (Community Interest Company) so that any profits made were ploughed back into it or used on other community based projects within the town.
The money to open has been raised via fundraising and community based grants and is planned to be self-sufficient once opened with club nights on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, an under 18’s area, drop off creche, classes, bowling and eating area.
Anyone that would like to get involved and help with the refurbishment can contact Breakers on 07599 951321, www.facebook.com/BreakersAndover or breakerscic@ymail.com
Help is required with everything from cleaning, plumbing, electrics, and everything in between.
Various jobs and careers will be available before opening from bar staff, childcare, bowling mechanic and management. Updates will be posted on www.breakersandover.co.uk/job-vacancies/
brilliant, I wish you all the best and hope all your hard work result in a fantastic social place for the ppl of our town
Remember this place well from my days as growing up & remember how important it was. Happy to help with the clean up if needed & good luck with it all.