Concerns have been raised about what impact a new state-of the-art ‘youth zone’ in Birkenhead will have on other similar services in the area.
Artist impressions of the £6 million building, known as ‘The Hive’ have been unveiled, after the firm behind it Seven Architects, were chosen as designers.
The youth centre will hope to offer a range of activities for youngsters, aged between eight and 19 (and up to 25 for those with a disability), including sport, fitness, dance, music and media.
The centre is set to open in 2016 and will cost people as little as 50p per visit.
Jamie Allen, Communications Coordinator for OnSide Youth Zones, told JMU Journalism: “The concept images follow the recent appointment of Seven Architecture by a panel of judges consisting of local young people and representatives of the Youth Zone Board including Wirral Council, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and OnSide.”
However there are concerns over the new centre from locals, according to Birkenhead and Tranmere councillor, Pat Cleary.
He told JMU Journalism: “I have spoken to residents who are concerned about the knock on effect this will have on other youth services and where is the money it will cost to run each year going to come from? I would like to see the council be more upfront about the building, the impact of it on other facilities and where the money is going to come from to run it”
The centre will be situated on Exmouth Street, adjacent to the new fire station. It will have approximately 2,700 square metres of space, with additional space available for game areas and a skate park.
Planning permission for the project is set to be submitted to Wirral Council sometime next month.