Give scouts an eco makeover (From Thisisdorset)

Give scouts an eco makeover

12:00pm Friday 15th February 2013 in News By Anne Bell

A COMPETITION to win a renewable energy makeover is hotting up for the Bridport Scout Group building.

No fewer than five south and west Dorset buildings, including the Scouts’ base at West Rivers House, have made it through to the second stage of the Puragen Keeping it Local competition.

The winner will be converted into an eco-friendly, energy efficient facility and they need public votes to help them win the contest.

A total of 11 entrants from across the country have been put forward including the scouts’ centre.

To get through to the second round a nominee had to write 150 words about each building explaining why they deserved to be put forward for the renewable makeover.

Now a public vote is running for people to pick their favoured project.

In its submission the 1st Bridport Scout Group said they provide young people with a chance of learning new skills and offer a wide range of exciting outdoors activities for boys and girls, in a safe and enjoyable environment.

“The three sections are led by trained volunteer leaders to provide challenging opportunities of activities.

“The leaders encourage the young people to extend their knowledge to try new activities and challenge themselves to learn and gain confidence and new experiences of the outdoor life skills like camping, map symbols/reading and compass skills, first aid, basic knots, lashings, fire lighting and backwoods cooking.

“Some of our young members, although not homeless, live in deprived conditions.

“In addition, their families are often on benefits, are unable to afford to purchase uniforms and appropriate camping equipment, or, the modest cost charges for membership subscription, camping or activities fees, and are supported by the group.”

Other buildings in the running include the Brackenbury Centre on Portland, which was converted from the old school into a community space and opened to the public last year, Southill Community Centre in Weymouth and the Weymouth West Scout Troop and Beavers Club hut in Granby Close. Also in line is the Storehouse Church in Dorchester.

The public vote will be running throughout February.