Consultation held over city’s £15m ‘world class’ youth centre plan
A formal planning application for a £15m leisure and social facility for young people in Wakefield is due to be submitted following the completion of a public consultation.
Wakefield Council approved plans for the “world class” Youth Zone in September last year.
The local authority previously said the purpose-built venue would provide a safe and secure venue for young people to spend time with friends and learn new skills.
People aged eight to 19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs, will be able to attend the facility, which will operate year-round from 8am to 10pm.
The facility is expected to be built on vacant land in the city centre on Ings Road.
Government Levelling Up funding is being used to deliver the project, which is be developed in partnership with national charity OnSide.
A consultation document by the organisation said: “Wakefield Youth Zone will enhance the town by providing a destination for young people of the area.
“It will be a state-of-the-art space with over 20 activities to try each session, staffed by skilled youth workers who believe in young people and help them realise their aims and achievements.”
Members of the public were invited to comment on the scheme between October 19 and 26.
The report said key considerations in delivering the centre included providing “an inspiring, safe and affordable place for young people to go” which was “the right location, in neutral territory that everyone in the community can share.”
A charity spokesperson previously said: “A Youth Zone in Wakefield would be truly transformational for the city’s children and young people, bringing new opportunities and experiences to help them grow, connect and gain skills.”
OnSide currently operates 19 Youth Zones across England and has others in development.
The report said activities typically on offer at its centres included:
– Creative arts programmes including digital design, photography, painting and crafts
– Live music, DJing, songwriting and podcast production.
– Dance, drama and performance workshops.
– Team sports, fitness sessions and recreational activities for all abilities.
– Careers advice and skills development workshops.
– Mentoring, leadership and volunteering opportunities.
– Health programmes focused on physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.
– Cooking, nutrition and independent living skills sessions.
– Coding and technology-based projects and activities.
– Social spaces where young people can make friends, relax and build confidence.