Committee endorse proposals for first ever Youth Zone in region

Proposals for a state-of-the-art facility that could transform the lives of thousands of the borough’s young people has moved a step closer.

Members of Basildon Council’s Neighbourhoods and Public Spaces Committee voted to endorse proposals to deliver an OnSide Youth Zone in the borough.

The council has already pledged to part-fund the creation of a Basildon Youth Zone, which would be the first of its kind in the region. It must now identify a suitable location that fits the strict criteria set out by national charity, OnSide which develops Youth Zones in partnership with local councils, young people and the community.

Committee Chair Councillor David Harrison said:

Youth Zones give young people somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to – occupying their bodies and minds with engaging activities, helping them develop new skills and socialise in a safe, positive and accessible environment.

“This could be an exciting addition for thousands of the borough’s young people for years to come.”

More than 38,000 members are making around 500,000 visits to OnSide’s existing network of 13 Youth Zones every year. They are drawn by the array of activities and support on offer seven days a week, 52 weeks a year, from DJ’ing to climbing, basketball coaching through to support into employment.

Young people who attend OnSide’s network of Youth Zones say how they improve their educational attainment, build their confidence and aspirations, and increase their levels of physical activity. Evidence from OnSide Youth Zones in other parts of the country suggests that they can also improve the quality of the local environment, make communities feel safer and reduce antisocial behaviour.

Next steps for the proposals will be discussed at a future committee meeting.

To find out more about OnSide Youth Zones go to www.onsideyouthzones.org

Image: Basildon Council