The Hub passes a new milestone but delays may hamper further refurbishments to the youth facility.

Another milestone has been passed for a much-needed youth facility in Lyme Regis - but it is not all plain sailing.

The Hub was packed with nearly 50 young people when it opened its doors for the first session.

Young people in the resort have been greatly involved in the project, from naming the building, formerly a boys’ club, to deciding on the furniture and fittings.

They will now be making decisions on the type of activities they want to be able to do.

Mark Gage, chairman of the Hub Development Group, said: “This is a really big milestone for the project. What had become a deserted and useless building within our town is once again starting to play a part in the life of our community and has taken the first step in providing much-needed services to the young people of our town and the wider area.”

Young people spent part of their summer holidays decorating the cafe drop-in area to ensure it was ready on time.

The project has been co-ordinated and managed by the Lyme Regis Development Trust.

The Woodroffe School, Dorset County Council and Lyme Regis Town Council, together with individuals and local community groups, have played a big part in getting The Hub up and running.

However, refurbishment of the building’s roof is now likely to be delayed.

Mr Gage added: “It’s not been all good news for the project in the last seven days. Following meetings with county council staff, it is very likely the refurbishment of the roof, which has been part-funded by Lyme Regis Town Council, will have to be delayed.

“This is due to new advice that has been received from the county council regarding a road closure to complete the work.

“The project had been previously advised that a closure would not be required. The project is now working with the town council in order co-ordinate the closure with one it requires.

“Unfortunately, this now means that worked scheduled for October 2011, will now not take place until January 2012.

“We will be doing everything in our power to ensure that this delay does not unduly affect the role out of more services into the building.”