Supporters of the campaign to save Grove Park Youth Club have launched a building preservation trust (BTP) in an attempt to secure its future.

The purpose built club, which the group describe as a 'local landmark', is under threat of demolition since funding was withdrawn by Lewisham council three years a go.

A spokesman for the group said: "The BTP aims to expand the remit of the building to cater for wider community daytime use.

"The group, formed by local residents and parents, is in talks with a number of providers of youth services as well as funding providers for both restoration works, ongoing maintenance and management.

"A number of local groups associated with youth provision and neighbourhood welfare have also been identified as potential tenants.

"However, this is just the start, and today we are appealing for young people to be involved in every aspect of designing and delivering a youth offer for this area.

"We encourage individuals and groups to get in touch and join our campaign to save our youth club."

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Grove Park Youth Club.

They also say that they are seeking a meeting with Lewisham Council to transfer the buildings ownership once 'an acceptable business plan can be agreed'.

A petition, addressed to MP Clive Efford, has gathered more than 1000 supporters.

One person who signed the petition wrote: "It is a fine building and there is a great need for a youth club and community hub for all.

"As a parent myself, I feel Grove Park youth should not be neglected.

"The wider community has expressed their desire to save and reopen this facility."

Another supporter wrote: "It is absolutely essential that we provide places in the community for the community to meet in, especially the young as they so often don't have anywhere to go.

"A youth club can make a real difference in a young person’s life and it is about time we cared about them more.

"Save Grove Park Youth Club to help save our communities."