In the heart of Lowton, where community spirit has always run deep, a forgotten corner once stood as a symbol of neglect. The old pensioners hut, a relic from days gone by, had become a crumbling eyesore—a hotspot for anti-social behavior and a genuine hazard to residents. Overgrown with weeds, riddled with dampness, rodent infestations, and exposed wiring, it posed serious risks. When it partially collapsed during a harsh winter, the urgency became undeniable: something had to change. But out of this challenge emerged an opportunity—not just to clear away the old, but to build something new, vibrant, and full of promise.
Origin of THE SLIC EOF HOPE PROJECT
This is the origin of Slice of Hope, a project born from the voices of our community and driven by a vision to reestablish the beloved Lowton Youth Club. For many, the original youth club holds fond memories of laughter, friendships, and growth. Its closure left a void, especially for young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET). They needed a safe space to belong, to learn skills, and to find guidance. Slice of Hope aims to fill that gap: a dedicated space offering support, mentorship, creative activities, and opportunities for personal development. It’s more than a building—it’s a platform for empowerment, fostering inclusivity, skill-building, and social connections in a welcoming environment.
The journey began with open conversations. In late 2023, we held community consultations to gauge needs and ideas after surveying residents the previous November. The response was overwhelming: a clear call for youth-focused initiatives, community events, and innovative spaces. Ideas flowed—from green gardens and cultural centers to a unique blend of social enterprise and youth engagement. One concept stood out: a space that could combine practical training with community gathering, inspired by the absence of local amenities and the desire to draw young people in meaningfully.
Building on this feedback, what started as a plan to renovate a single shipping container evolved into something bigger. Anticipated demand and enthusiastic input led us to expand to three containers, creating a sustainable, cost-effective space with low environmental impact. This modular approach allowed us to prioritise long-term viability while addressing immediate needs. The site’s remediation—clearing debris, hazardous materials, and overgrowth—was no small feat, but it set the foundation for renewal.
the support that made this project possible
None of this would have been possible without the incredible support we’ve received. We’re grateful to the local community, Wigan Council, and the National Lottery Small Grants for their backing. A special thanks goes to Kieron Hough, whose tireless efforts through the ‘Match My Project’ initiative secured vital contributions from local businesses: WLBC for excavation and site clearing, Salisbury Roofing for their expertise, Dennis Goulding for windows, and Standish Energy for electrical support. These partnerships turned vision into reality providing discounted services and skills to aide the project.
Central to Slice of Hope is our dedicated volunteer team, whose unwavering passion, skill, and countless hours of effort have turned vision into reality. Julian Green, Stuart Heys, Caroline Gerritssen, and Chris Walker, along with many others, poured their time and expertise into every stage, delivering contributions that were truly transformative.
The project was conceived, designed, and driven forward by hub founder and trustee Luke Brown, building directly on the success of the Lowton Community Hub. After leading the remodelling of the former youth club building into a thriving community space—complete with a café, dojo, physio clinic, and diverse activities—Luke saw an opportunity to extend that ecosystem. Slice of Hope targets young people in particular, creating a dedicated, supportive hub for those not in education, employment, or training. It will serve as a key part of the broader Lowton Community Hub family: a welcoming staging ground for community events, an outdoor café extension, and a place where skills, confidence, and connections can flourish.
As we prepare to launch in May 2026, Slice of Hope stands as a testament to what happens when a community comes together. It’s a story of transformation—from decay to hope, from isolation to connection. We’re committed to ongoing feedback, ensuring this space evolves with the needs of our youth and residents. Whether through skill workshops, social events, or simply a place to belong, Slice of Hope is here to inspire the next generation and strengthen the bonds that make Lowton special.
Join us in this exciting chapter. Your input, support, and participation are what make it all possible. Together, we’re not just rebuilding a site—we’re reigniting hope, one slice at a time.
"Today's young people are facing real challenges—far fewer safe, dedicated spaces to hang out, learn, or just be themselves. Many deal with isolation, mental health struggles, or an uphill battle to build skills and find their path. Slice of Hope is about stepping up for them: offering a place where they feel truly seen and valued, gaining practical skills that build capability and confidence, and connecting with guidance and peers in a way that makes a lasting difference. It's not just a building—it's about giving our young people the support and opportunities they deserve, right here in the community"
I gotta say, I’m excited to see what’s cooking’ with this pizza idea. Pardon the pun. But let’s make sure it doesn’t just end up as another run-down spot. We need quality and something that will last, not a quick fix.
Bring back the Youth Club! The new youth club at Leigh Sports village is good but we need one in Lowton too so transport issues will be less of a problem.
I missed the first meeting but managed to make the second. It was great to see so much positivity rather than everything been so doom and gloom for so long. ‘A slice of hope. That’s exactly what we all need!
The old youth club was abig part of my childhood, and seeing it closed down was really sad. I’m hopeful that this project will provide a new space for young people to have some fun away from screens. Exactly what is needed!
The old pensioners hut’s been an eyesore for too long, and bringing back the youth club would bring new life back to the area. can’t wait to see this, i’ll be the first in the queue!
It’s about time! I’ve been waiting for something like this to happen for years.
Having a dedicated space for community events is something we desperately need. I’m looking forward to seeing how the project works out and the positive impact it will have on our area.
Don’t think for a second this will wash Wigan Council from selling off all the land to the house builders!!! I’m proud to be a part of Lowton all my life and to see it change is horrible. We definitely need something for the youth. This project (if it actually happens) seems like a step in the right direction. We’ll see. The proof is in the puddin.
The idea of using a steel container for the pizzeria is brilliant and sustainable. It’s great to see a project that not only sorts out a problem and what we need also priorities environmental responsibility. Really excellent idea.
The pensioners hut has been ready to be knocked down since I was in school so definitely needed, just a bad eye sore. I’m not keen on seeing loads of fast food places all over Lowton, luckily there arnt that many and no pizza place? What the hell! They’re normally all over the place. This seems different, like such a good idea and something the young people definitely need in our area. I hope it’ll be open to serve everyone though. I’m all for pizza yummm, it’ll do really well!