TEENAGERS in Bovey Tracey are poised to give the town’s Riverside Community Centre an artistic makeover.

The creation of a ‘youth-friendly space’ in the building, which is owned by Bovey Tracey Town Council and supported by the National Lottery, was recommended by officials from Devon Communities Together which had helped monitor The National Lottery Funding objectives.

Centre Manager Helen Tate told members of Bovey Tracey Town Council’s Finance, Resources and General Purposes Committee that creating a dedicated room for youngsters at the centre was impossible, given its layout and multiple uses.

Her suggested solution was to employ an artist who could guide the teenagers as they created bespoke artwork to decorate the community room.

In a report presented to the town council committee she said: ‘Bright, attractive, themed artwork would immediately enhance the hall for all users, improving the atmosphere without altering the building’s structure.

‘By involving local teenagers directly in the design and creation of the artwork, the project will ensure the themes and style genuinely reflect youth perspective, encourage young people to feel ownership of the space [and] increase youth engagement with the centre and its wider activities.’

Members heard that the cost would be limited to about £500 and they voted in favour of going ahead.

A professional artist has already been approached about becoming involved in the project.

Now teenagers in the town are to be contacted through schools, the Youth Cafe and social media to judge their appetite for the project.

Work could get under way later this year and would echo similar projects already completed at the Youth Cafe and Community Fridge.