Warrington Youth Zone development nears completion

Warrington's young people were given a first look inside their state-of-the-art facility as construction nears completion. The group, which included members of the Young People’s Development Group, were joined by the Youth Zone’s supporters as they were given a guided tour of the building and were able to see the different rooms taking shape.

Set to open next Spring, Warrington Youth Zone will be open to young people aged between seven and 19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs. The Youth Zone will build on the success and legacy of Warrington Youth Club, which was established in 1930. It is being developed by the national charity OnSide, which has a network 13 similar Youth Zones across the country and will be run as an independent charity.

Warrington Youth Zone is a £6.9 million, iconic state-of-the-art, 3,200 square metre facility with the capacity to transform the lives of more than 7,000 young people in the area.

Building on the success and legacy of Warrington Youth Club, the building is being developed by the national charity OnSide which has a network of 13 similar Youth Zones across the county. Warrington Youth Zone will officially open in Spring 2022.

"Having a state-of-the art building will enable us to welcome thousands of young people from all across Warrington, providing them with over 20 activities every evening as well as the vital support they need and deserve," explained Warrington Youth Zone CEO Dave McNicholl. "None of this would be possible without the support of Warrington Borough Council and our fantastic group of funders."

It aims to raise the aspirations, enhance prospects and improve health and wellbeing for youngsters by providing affordable access to a wide range of programmes, services and activities including sports, arts, music, media, dance, drama and mentoring as well as offering hot meals for just £1.

"I thought it was really cool, I really like all the different rooms. The Youth Zone will be really good for young people in Warrington, it’s going to give them something to do, it’s not going to cost a lot to go in and it is easily accessible because we are right near the bus and train station," said Young People’s Development group member Izzy Murphy.

The building will also have a dedicated enterprise and employability suite, which aims to support people who are not in education, employment or training, by equipping them with skills for the future.