Club rescue plan to go through the ages

Community centres used by senior citizens in the Black Country could also be used as youth clubs under new plans.

Sandwell Council has backed plans to transfer the running of two existing Sons of Rest Clubs from cultural to youth services.

The facilities could be opened up to younger people to help the council access grant cash.

The authority's decision-making cabinet backed plans to make the changes to Windmill Community Centre in Smethwick and Jubilee Park Community Centre in Tipton.

The future of both centres was in doubt following a borough-wide review of facilities.

However, both community facilities will now be saved following the decision to focus activities on services for young people, turning them into Integrated Youth Centres.

Sandwell Council leader Councillor Bill Thomas said: "We need more of these centres across the borough.

"A good example could be the Sons of Rest, which we have been able to keep open.

"We need proper consultation to see how we could use them, but they could be brought into use as community buildings.

"There are potential conflicts of interests when it comes to elderly and young people existing side by side but facilities would be used at different times."

The scheme to improve youth facilities is part of a multi-million pound bid to stamp out anti-social behaviour. Under the scheme, buildings will also be available for use by other members of the public.