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The Pump

The Shard End Community Building Project was officially launched on Tuesday 12th September as the Pump by HRH the Prince of Wales accompanied by HRH the Duchess of Cornwall. Both Tony Henry, Chief Executive and Bob Addey, Head of Campus were presented to the royal visitors for their part in supporting the project since the late 1990s when, following comments raised by the HRH Prince of Wales on visit to Birmingham in relating to the lack of or poor facilities for young people in the Kitts Green/ Shard End area of east Birmingham, a group of interested people from local organisations got together to see what could be done.  The Prince of Wales’ vision was to create and outstanding building which would not only act as a focus and inspiration for the personal development of young people, but would also be designed and built by young people.

The organisations represented during these early stages were: Birmingham International Airport, Birmingham Youth Service, Birmingham City Council, City College, Birmingham, the International School, Careers Service (Connexions), LSC and the local EAZ.  Representatives from these organisations have stayed with the project throughout and have been joined by other interested parties including South Birmingham College, Birmingham Rathbone and the Prince’s Charities.  

The project was looked upon as an opportunity to involve local young people in the planning and construction of the building and the International School and Youth Service led this consultancy with support from other local organisations including City College and Connexions. A number of community events were arranged to initiate this process and to help local people identify with and exercise some ownership of the building.
In addition over 40 local young people have been undertaking a training programme in construction trades delivered by South Birmingham College with on site work experience through the cooperation of Thomas Vale, the building contractors.

Once open the building will form the hub for youth work in the area and will enable community access to a variety of services including education, skills training, careers advices and information, health advice and support services along with a range of leisure services including a recording studio, performance space and dance studio facilities, cybercafé and crèche.  City College will be the main education and training provider providing a range of courses for young people including hair and beauty, early years and skills for life.  Birmingham Rathbone also intend to offer education and training in the building.  The main user of the building will be Birmingham Youth Service, City College, Rathbone and Connexions.

The Pump is due for completion in December 2006. Courses should start January 2007.