Colchester Youth Centre £1 million revamp aims to provide a modern social space
Colchester Townhouse is the latest youth centre in the city to receive significant upgrades.
Young people have a range of new features inside the Colchester Townhouse Youth Centre.
The £1 million refurbishment, funded by the government's Town Deal programme, has seen the space upgraded.
The new features include:
A modern ‘teaching kitchen’ to learn new skills
A dedicated gaming room with a VR area to encourage socialising
A music recording studio to nurture young people’s talents and interests, due to be completed soon
A traversing wall and basketball hoops to promote physical activity
A welcoming new entrance and reception
Fresh, vibrant decorations with new furniture and flooring chosen in consultation with young people
and Improved accessibility features
Councillor Mark Durham said: “Looking around this vibrant new space, it’s clear no expense was spared in making sure young people in Colchester have a place to hang out, learn new skills and have fun.
“It’s so important young people are able to switch off with friends in safe, modern facilities such as these for their own personal and social development.”
Councillor David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, added: "I’m delighted to see long-needed investment in Colchester’s youth centres. These spaces give young people a safe, modern environment to connect, develop skills and enjoy new experiences. The refurbishment reflects their voices and ideas. It’s their space, and that matters. I can’t wait to see the positive impact this will have on their lives and our community."
Reflecting on wider improvements to the city centre, Simon Blaxill, Chair of We Are Colchester, said: "The Townhouse is a fantastic addition to Colchester’s regeneration story. Following the transformation of St Nicholas Square and the structural completion of the Digital Forum, this investment creates vibrant spaces where young people can learn, socialise and thrive. These improvements aren’t just about buildings; they’re about giving the next generation a city centre they feel proud to be part of."
Colchester Mayor, Mike Lilley, said: "Colchester’s young people deserve the very best, and this £1 million upgrade delivers exactly that. From VR gaming to music studios and sports facilities, the Townhouse is now a hub of creativity and activity. It’s a clear signal that we value our youth and want them to have opportunities right here in the heart of our city."