AN APPEAL has been launched to raise £300,000 to build a new outdoor learning centre in the Eastleigh borough.

Members of Youth Options, the organisation that delivers initiatives to help youngsters reach their full potential, are asking the community to back plans for a new outdoor learning centre in Bishopstoke.

The new facility, which will be in Bishopstoke Road, will have two classrooms, three open spaces and six ponds.

This will allow the organisation to run several activities such as forest schools and give youngsters the opportunity to learn more about the environment and agriculture.

Mark Dixon, CEO at Youth Options, said this will also allow the group to help youngsters with mental health issues.

He added: "It's not about the learning but also about working with people who have emotional issues and mental health issues and working in an outside environment we believe it will support them."

Mr Dixon said the centre will be used by youngsters from across the county.

And added:"It will provide a fantastic asset for Hampshire in general, for young people, parents and schools to use. We identified a need in the community for youngsters to learn outdoor skills. There are less and less opportunities for people to go out and play and learn and this will be a great opportunity to learn outside, develop new skills and benefit from the nature.

The site is already a forest area and Mr Dixon said they want to keep it as woody as possible.

The news has been welcomed by borough councillor Tina Campbell, cabinet lead for social policy.

She said: "The council is very supportive of the work of Youth Options and the opportunities they provide for young people. We look forward to them developing exciting proposals for the site and wish them every success with their fundraising.”

The organisation is aiming to raise the money needed in the next 12 months and is hoping local businesses and the the community will support them.

To support the scheme visit https://www.youthoptions.co.uk.