Linwood Youth Centre’s future could be under threat if plans go ahead for a far-reaching shake-up of services for young people across Kent.

The community base in Mill Road, overlooking Victoria Park, is also used by a play school, for dance classes, as a church and as offices for KCC staff.

Deal Mayor Cllr Jim Cronk described the proposals as a big disappointment for the young people in the town and called for the council to think through its decision again.

He added: "There seems to be nothing else in place to replace Linwood Youth Centre. What are the youth going to do without Linwood?"

Cllr Mike Hill, a cabinet member at the county council, said: "These proposals are intended to transform the way we deliver services to young people so that we can continue to provide a first class service despite the severe financial pressures we all face.

"We will carry out a consultation with the public before any decisions are taken and the first stage is for these plans to be discussed by the cabinet on Monday."

* For full story see the East Kent Mercury, Thursday, July 13.