Fresh push to tackle anti-social behaviour as youth space returns to Lincoln

A bold youth space is back in Lincoln this summer, offering free activities designed to give young people a safe, creative place to spend time.

The Zone - run by Zest Theatre - has taken over City Square from 18 July to 29 August, opening Tuesday to Saturday, 11am–5pm.

It’s aimed at 11 to 18-year-olds, with everything from DJing and street art to parkour, silent discos, games, and even a cosy book corner - all completely free.

The project was developed after Zest spoke to 1,500 young people about what they wanted for the city. One clear message emerged: the need for safe, welcoming spaces to tackle boredom and reduce the risk of anti-social behaviour.

"In 2021 we met 10% of Lincoln's young people, and one of the key themes that kept coming back to us is that they just didn't have a place to go," said Adam Pownall, Creative Producer at Zest Theatre.

"A question that we'd ask young people is - 'do you feel like you're thriving?' - and a young person said 'how can I thrive when I don't even exist'.

"It's heart-breaking, and I think that's just one of the reasons we go well we need to provide these spaces for young people."

After attracting nearly 1,000 visits during its 2024 pilot, The Zone has expanded to a full seven-week season this year.

A new youth ambassador group - made up of last year’s most frequent visitors - have shaped the programme and help run activities on site.

The project is supported by the Million Hours Fund, Lincoln Arts Centre, and Lincolnshire Co-op.