Work has started on transforming an underused part of Bamber Bridge Leisure Centre into a brand-new youth centre for children and young people.
Last summer, South Ribble Borough Council consulted local young people to find out what they wanted to see, and the message was loud and clear - a dedicated space that’s theirs.
Young people expressed a desire for a space that is comfortable, colourful, modern, and most importantly, different from the classrooms they are so used to Monday to Friday. A place to spend time with friends, relax, be creative, have fun, try new things, and feel welcome without being judged.
South Ribble Borough Council continues its commitment to listening to young voices and is now conducting a consultation phase to discover what amenities young people want to see inside the youth centre, from chill out areas to gaming zones and creative spaces.
To make your voice heard, and to play a pivotal role in shaping this new youth centre, South Ribble Borough Council are encouraging all young people across Bamber Bridge to get involved by visiting here. The deadline to have your say is 20th August 2026.
Commenting on the development of the youth centre, Councillor Clare Hunter, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Leisure said, “I am so pleased to see the first phase of development commence on this new youth centre located inside Bamber Bridge Leisure Centre.
“It is so encouraging to already see the strong reception this consultation phase has had within the community.
“I want children and young people in not only Bamber Bridge but across our whole community to have a dedicated space, that is built solely around their wants and needs. It is important we hear from all voices in our community so we, together as one can build a borough that works for everyone, regardless of their age or background.
“I’ve been in regular touch with the contractors and visiting the site of the new youth centre frequently to see the work progress on the centre and I cannot wait to be there when it opens.”
Councillor Aniela Bylinski Gelder, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Customers said,
“It’s fantastic to see such positive developments coming to Bamber Bridge and South Ribble.
“This new youth centre will have such a positive impact on the lives of young people across Bamber Bridge giving them a dedicated place to call theirs.
“It is now important we hear from those voices to find out what it is they want to see in their youth centre so we can create a safe environment they feel truly comfortable in.”
The youth centre has been made possible through the council working in partnership with Maya Ellis MP and the Police and Crime Commissioner’s fund to improve the social lives of 11 to17 year olds across the borough by providing a space to socialise and reducing potential for anti-social behaviour .
A dedicated fund of an additional £20,000 has been secured from South Ribble Borough Council’s community funding to support the interior refurbishments.