A NEW purpose- built, accessible and energy efficient youth centre has moved a step closer to becoming a reality with the demolition of the original Heathfield facility.

The demolition will make way for a spacious two-storey youth centre on the High Street that will serve the needs of the community for years to come.

The scheme is part of a £7 million upgrade of two youth centres in East Sussex, made possible thanks to the Government’s Youth Investment Fund.

Cllr Bob Bowdler, lead member for children and families, said: “This project will breathe new life into youth services in Heathfield and it’s great to see it moving forward.

“The original Heathfield youth centre was built in the 1950s and has been added to over the years. As a result, it’s not particularly functional and limits the great work that our youth workers can do.

“The new state-of-the-art youth hub will enable us to offer a wide range of positive activities and support services for young people after school, in the evenings and at the weekends, helping young people build confidence and steering them away from anti-social behaviour in Heathfield.”

Plans for the hub were given final approval earlier this year for the demolition of the existing building and the development of a new youth centre building that will incorporate youth provision, Family Hub activities and space that’s available for community groups working across all ages.

Building work is due to start in this summer, with the development of the new centre expected to be completed by spring 2025.

While development works take place, youth services in Heathfield have been relocated to community locations.  Details of these can be found at https://www.escis.org.uk/clubs-leisure-activities/heathfield-youth-hub/

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