Empty pubs could get new lease of life ... as alcohol-free bars for teenagers

By Daily Mail Reporter

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Empty pubs could be given a new lease of life - as non-alcoholic pubs for teenagers.

The venture, which has financial backing from the Home Office, could see games, music, entertainment and food served up to their 13 to 19-year-old patrons - but nothing stronger than a cola for refreshment.

Three major pub companies are interested in the venture, with the first pilots expected to open in Crewe and Merseyside within the next three months, which if successful could lead to a national roll-out.

Teenagers could enjoys venues filled with games, music, entertainment and food - but no alcohol

The initiative has already received policy support from Government departments including the Home Office, which has agreed to fund early work on one of the first projects.

Partnership Projects managing director Andrew Harris, which is behind the pilots, said alcohol-free teen-pubs could help reduce crime, address substance misuse and encourage future adults to drink responsibly.

He said: 'We have done a tremendous amount of research into the concept of a teenage pub including polling youngsters themselves about what they wanted from these new outlets.

'Basically they are looking for the same services as adults, which means entertainment, games, music, soft drinks and convenience foo

The new pubs will offer the same services as any traditional public house business except for alcohol and gambling.

Each pub will be run by a local 'not-for-profit company' that will comprise local agencies helped by a shadow board of teenagers.

It is hoped funding will help meet start-up and first-year running costs, which will total up to £60,000 for each venue. The pubs are expected to become self-financing after the first year of operations.

Agencies that have helped Partnership Projects to launch the new scheme include the Government Youth Task Force, the Department for Children Schools & Families, the Home Office and the British Beer & Pub Association.

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