AFTER a 12-month trial period in Harpenden, a portable youth shelter where youngsters can sit, talk and socialise out of the elements, is moving to a new location.

It has been switched from Rothamsted Park to Wheathampstead where it is situated next to the East Lane car park.

But it has been so successful in Harpenden that the district council is looking at whether to install a permanent shelter there.

The portable construction is part of a project to provide more youth shelters across the district, adding to those installed in St Albans at Fleetville, Longacres and Temple View.

The scheme was set up after a cross-party group of councillors identified a need for more facilities for young people not involved in clubs and organised activities.

Usage at the temporary locations is monitored and feedback is gained from local residents in order to determine whether a permanent shelter is appropriate.

The shelter’s new temporary home was chosen by young people from the Wheathampstead area following a local consultation. It will remain in place for six months and residents are invited to give their view through an online survey at www.stalbans.gov.uk/portableyouthshelter