The brand new replacement for the Highbridge Hotel is set to finally open to the public in January when a major £4.6m redevelopment project is completed – and we were invited to take a look inside this week.
The impressive new YMCA Highbridge building provides a new community cafe, a large multi-use sports hall for group sports activities, plus modern meeting areas, and 23 new homes for young people.
During a Christmas event held on Friday (December 20th), local people got a first chance to see inside for the first time.
The original hotel building was gutted in a fire in April 2008 that left it severely damaged, prompting a long re-build project that encountered several delays.
Talking to Burnham-On-Sea.com, Stephanie Parsons, YMCA Dulverton Group Operations Manager, said: “It is a really exciting time for everyone involved with the project.”
“It’s a wonderful, modern new building and we are looking forward to opening it to the public on January 6th.”
“From that date, all our facilities will be available.”
”Our new community cafe will open, serving breakfasts, snacks and lunches from 7am-2pm.”
“Room bookings for community groups will also be available — we have two modern function rooms and three meeting rooms available.”
“Our large sports hall will also be available for a variety of sports, including five-a-side football.”
“Our brand new youth clubs will also launch, providing sports for young people. These will be held on Wednesdays from 4-5pm for children aged 8-11, and then 5-6pm for kids aged 12-15.”
“On Thursdays from 6-8pm there will be a new after-school activities club. Fridays from 10am-12pm will see ‘stay and play’ for under 5s and their parents.”
A YMCA spokesman added: “The YMCA would like to thank everyone who has been supportive of the project, including John Perkins Construction, Sedgemoor District Council and Homes England.”
“Through the support of these bodies over the past six years we have been able to bring this very challenging project to fruition, and are sure it will be a huge asset for the community for years to come.”
Burnham-On-Sea.com will have more details about the facilities and activities in the New Year.
