Teens urged 'tell us what you want' at youth hub

Work has started on transforming an under-used part of a leisure centre into a new youth centre after young people told councillors they wanted their own dedicated space.

A former squash room is being converted into one of the main rooms for the youth hub at Bamber Bridge Leisure Centre in Bamber Bridge, Preston.

Young people there are being asked to help shape what facilities the new youth centre will have, which could include chill-out areas and gaming zones.

Councillor Clare Hunter, from South Ribble Borough Council urged young people "to tell me what you want" after an additional £20,000 funding had been secured for refurbishing the interior space.

Last year the authority consulted local young people to find out what they wanted to see.

It said the message was loud and clear - a "dedicated space that's theirs".

The council said young people said they wanted a comfortable, colourful and modern space but most importantly, different from the classrooms they are so used to Monday to Friday.

It added they wanted a place to spend time with friends, relax, be creative, have fun, try new things, and feel welcome without being judged.

The council is urging young people to help shape the new youth centre by taking part in a consultation to discover what amenities they want to see inside the hub - from chill out areas to gaming zones and creative spaces.

Hunter, who is cabinet member for health, wellbeing and leisure said: "I want children and young people in not only Bamber Bridge but across our whole community to have a dedicated space, that is built solely around their wants and needs.

"It is important we hear from all voices in our community so we, together as one can build a borough that works for everyone, regardless of their age or background.

"It's no good me turning around going 'I know what you need'.

"You've got to tell me what you want."

Councillor Aniela Bylinski Gelder, deputy leader and cabinet member for communities and customers said: "This new youth centre will have such a positive impact on the lives of young people across Bamber Bridge giving them a dedicated place to call theirs.

"It is now important we hear from those voices to find out what it is they want to see in their youth centre so we can create a safe environment they feel truly comfortable in."

The youth centre project is a partnership between the council and Labour MP for Ribble Valley Maya Ellis.

It has had help from the Lancashire police and crime commissioner's community fund to improve the social lives of 11 to 17 year olds by providing a space to socialise and reducing potential for anti-social behaviour.

The survey is open until 20 August.

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