Banbury Youth Centre plans approved

3 February 2010, 11:07 | Updated: 3 February 2010, 11:16

Plans for a new £3m youth centre in Banbury have been approved by council bosses.

Local teenagers have helped decide what will go in the New Futures Centre building at Woodgreen, which should be finished by July next year.  It will replace the existing youth centre.  Oxfordshire County Council say it will be the biggest centre of its kind in the UK.

The new building will include a performance hall with stage, music practice rooms, an art room with a pottery kiln, a fitness suite, a workshop and a cafe-style 'chill-out' area.  Outside there are plans for an all-weather court for basketball and football.

Louise Chapman from Oxfordshire County Council said: "The New Futures Centre will provide a fantastic focal point for young people in Banbury. The planned facilities will help children and families access a range of vital services as well as giving young Banbury residents the opportunity to engage in the activities they are interested in."
 
Anthony Sayles, Area Manager for the Integrated Youth Support Service, said: "Designed with young people and for young people we hope that this facility will go on to provide the kind of space and support that young people want.  It's a fantastic opportunity for the Banbury Community and most importantly children and young people."

Building work is due to start in summer 2010.