Work began on the refurbishment of Southall Youth Activity Centre (YAC) in June of this year, and it is already at an advanced stage. The design and the activities have been led by young people, who will be using the centre.

Working with architect Emma Truman, the YAC is being completely refurbished by contractors G&V Contracts Ltd both inside and out, to provide a facility that delivers now and into the future for local young people.

The work follows on from the decision by the then new Administration in 2021 to retain the Young Adult Centre, and invest £2million in refurbishing a much needed and in demand centre for young people.

Leader of the council Peter Mason visited the centre this week (Monday 2 September) along with councillors Josh Blacker and Jasbir Anand to see for themselves how work is progressing.

‘Putting young people in control’

Councillor Mason said: “We said that we would put young people in control of the future of the Southall Young Adult Centre, and that’s exactly what we’ve done. They have worked alongside architects and designers to reimagine the building, and make it fit for the future.”

Some of the changes that are taking place include:

• a lift to allow full accessibility to the building, including the mezzanine floor where there will be a breakout area
• a new walkway connecting the mezzanine breakout area with the staff offices
• an improved soundproof music studio
• a new training kitchen
• a large gym with new equipment
• a new outdoor gym
• a new outdoor multi-use games area (MUGA) with equipment, part funded by the Football Foundation
• a covered outdoor space for BBQs and breakout.

‘In the heart of the community’

“This building is in the heart of the local community,” continued Councillor Mason. “We hope that the work that is being done will mean that it will be an amazing facility for young people in Southall and beyond.”

Councillor Josh Blacker, cabinet member for a fairer start said: “What is being planned is so exciting but some of the structural improvements will also make this space much more comfortable and usable. While the external walls and roof have not been replaced, they have been fully insulated to keep the building warm in the colder months but cool in the summer. This makes the building much more sustainable and will make a huge difference to the cost of upkeep of the facility.”

The works are on track to be completed during November 2024.