£1.3 million project to create modern, engaging spaces for young people across the city
Colchester’s youth centres are set for a major refresh, thanks to a £1.3 million partnership between Essex Youth Services and Colchester City Council. The project aims to transform three centres into vibrant hubs where young people can explore their interests, make friends, and access high-quality facilities in a safe and supportive environment.
The project kicks off this Easter with a significant investment in Highwoods Youth Centre. Young people themselves helped shape the plans, which include:
- A welcoming new entrance
- A modern kitchen area, perfect for learning new skills
- Upgraded restrooms
- Fresh, vibrant decorations and flooring chosen by young people
- A dedicated storage room for equipment
- Eye-catching feature wall
- Improved accessibility features for everyone
Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “I’m delighted to see long-needed investment in Colchester’s youth centres. These centres provide a shared space for young people to connect, socialise and develop new skills. Refurbishment will provide a much-needed uplift. It is great to see improvement and that the designs reflect consultation with young people. It’s their space, and their voices really matter!”
This youth centre project is being funded by the Town Deal, as well as the refurbishment of the Townhouse and Stanway Youth Centres, which is planned for later this year. The Townhouse will see improvements from May to September, while Stanway will be revitalised over the summer.
These upgrades form part of a wider programme of regeneration projects in Colchester’s city centre. Funding for these projects comes from various sources, including the government’s Levelling Up Fund (£19.6 million), Town Deal (£19.2 million) and other sources. This combined investment will revitalise key public spaces, enhance cycling and walking infrastructure, breathe life back into heritage sites, benefit businesses, and much more.
Cllr Mark Durham, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for The Arts, Heritage and Culture, said: “This is an exciting time for both Essex County Council and Colchester City Council, as we embark on projects which will transform the city centre and beyond, boosting and creating much-needed facilities for residents.
“Our Youth Services’ partnership with Colchester City Council is a great example of this. Not only will these vibrant hubs create an enjoyable environment for young people, but spaces like this are essential for supporting future skills and boosting employment prospects further down the line.”
Page last reviewed: 21 March 2024