Multi-million pound project to create new youth centre underway

Work to convert the Lyndhurst Centre in Lyndhurst Crescent, Park North is now underway and, thanks to £3.8m in funding from the Government’s Youth Investment Fund, it will have enough capacity to support more than 400 children a week.

The inclusive facility is being provided by Swindon Borough Council and will have open access youth services for all children aged between 11 and 16 (and up to 25 for those with disabilities) in Swindon, offering a Child First model designed to support children to access services to avoid potential harm outside the home.

The new youth centre is a key priority in the Council’s corporate plan, the Swindon Plan, and aligns with the local authority’s Mission to Build a Fairer Swindon.

The Lyndhurst Centre building will be full refurbished by local contractor RJ Leighfield and a wide range of activities will be available to children with local youth support services, SMASH Youth Project, STEP Swindon and WAY engaged as a partnership to deliver much needed services and opportunities.

Young people have also been involved in the project from the start, advising on the types of activities they would like to see in the centre to keep those that use it engaged.

Children have not only been consulted on all aspects of the facility, they will also have important roles as the provision takes shape, such as being involved in a management committee for the centre.

Among the facilities on offer will be:

• a hair and beauty hub
• kitchens with teaching facilities
• two music booths for solo artists and bands
• a gym
• counselling spaces
• a youth club facility
• an alternative education facility
• Accessible services for those with special educational needs and disabilities

The building which is on track to be complete in March 2025 will be open from 8am until 10pm.

There will also be activities for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and opportunities for young people to engage with local training and employment opportunities in the Borough.

Councillor Paul Dixon, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, said: “This is a really exciting project and I am so pleased we have begun work to transform this empty building into a fantastic facility for children in Swindon.

“This is what building a fairer Swindon is all about. Ensuring no one is left behind and equipping young people with the skills and opportunities to have a bright start in life.

“I am thrilled young people have been engaged with this project from the start as their input has been invaluable in ensuring we get the right mix of activities in the youth centre.

“I can’t wait to see the centre open next spring.”

Seventeen-year-old Toby, one of the Young Changemakers from WAY said: “For too long others have decided what’s best for us young people. Now it’s our turn.”

Fellow Young Changemaker, Xavdryn, aged 16, added: “It’s going to be amazing for young people as there aren’t many spaces currently that are made for young, by young people.”