Opposition to PCYC Queensland's plans to relocate Townsville facility

Members of the Castle Hill PCYC in the city of Townsville are unhappy at plans by PCYC Queensland to relocate the facility.

As reported by the Townsville Bulletin, Castle Hill PCYC is intending to not to extend its land lease with Townsville City Council for the current premises in Hugh Street, instead looking at alternate sites.

PCYC Queensland Chief Executive, Phil Schultz said discussions were being held with Townsville City Council to find an alternate site for the Castle Hill PCYC with North Shore an area of interest.

Schultz advised “council has offered the Castle Hill PCYC a lease extension on their current site but that offer was not accepted.

“PCYC management and Council are working together to look for a suitable alternate site.”

Schultz claimed negotiations over the Hugh Street site were still ongoing but the only thing that appears certain to remain is the facility’s after school care service.

He added "should the North Shore option prove viable for our members, PCYC Queensland will continue to operate outside school hours care services from the Castle Hill site that is accessed by two thirds of our members.

“Other PCYC Queensland programs and services, such as our gym and fitness centre may be relocated.”

Schultz told the Townsville Bulletin that it was too early to speculate over whether the PCYC Castle Hill building would be sold off.

PCYC Queensland owns and built the building and infrastructure on the site. The land is owned by the Queensland Government and managed by Townsville City Council.

Uncertainly over the future of facility has spurred loyal Castle Hill PCYC users to begin fighting to keep it where it stands.

The group includes about 25 people aged between 50 and 86 and the ladies who use the facility.

At risk youth, pensioners, gym goers, members of the boxing club and swim teams are among the others to use the facility.

Image: Castle Hill PCYC.