PLANS are forging ahead to establish AltonÕs first-ever youth council.
Set up to give young people a voice, this will not be an elected council but, according to Alton town clerk, Steve Parkinson, will be open to any young person living in Alton Òto turn up and have their say.
ÒIt will provide a forum to discuss matters of concern to young people with other youngsters, and a means of making local authorities and other organisations listen to what they have to say.
ÒIn addition ,it will give them a taste of what local democracy is all about and how they can influence what goes on in the town.Ó
From the town councilÕs point of view, a youth council will give councillors a better idea of what young people want and what they think about the town and the facilities on offer, said Mr Parkinson.
To be launched at a free open-air music event in the Public Gardens later this summer, the aim is to stage a first meeting in late September/early October with a speaker from an established youth council. In supporting the initiative, Alton Town councillors have agreed to allocate an initial sum of £200 for start-up costs.
The launch event, which is to feature music provided by local bands interspersed with speakers explaining the purpose of the youth council, will be promoted via a poster campaign, through youth workers visiting schools, and via the local press and radio.
ÒThe aim is to encourage as many young people as possible to become involved,Ó said Mr Parkinson.