Thousands of youngsters in Salford could be about to benefit from a huge new youth centre in the city.
HideOut Youth Zone has submitted a planning application to build a multi-million pound building next to University of Salford. It would be the sixth project of its kind in Greater Manchester - and follows centres in Gorton, Harpurhey, Oldham, Wigan and Bolton.
Aimed at young people aged eight to 19, or up to 25 for those with additional needs, it will open seven days a week and support approximately 4,000 youngsters.
Members will have the opportunity to access over 20 activities every night, ranging from sports such as football, boxing and climbing, to creative arts, music, drama, and employability training – all for just 50p per visit and £5 annual membership.
Work is due to start in August the plans are approved by Salford City Council and expected to be finished late next year. Mum Hayleigh Thompson, 29, said HideOut Youth Zone in Gorton has helped her child's confidence.
She told the MEN: "When he started, he wasn't too keen, but he's been attending junior club for the past three months and I have seen his confidence grow so much.
"He tries new things he's never done before and the staff are there to help push him an encourage him to try new things out."
Another parent said: “We would really like to thank you all at HideOut. Leon never left the house and he really enjoys HideOut and has more confidence thanks to your welcoming atmosphere."
One mum said:“ A massive thank you to HideOut for helping my family. My children really are isolated and excluded from so much. I'm desperate for them to be able to socialise.
"Unfortunately, they need a lot of supervision and support to keep themselves safe. A hard find. HideOut has been amazing for their confidence."
Adam Farricker, CEO of HideOut Youth Zone, said: “Following feedback from local residents and young people gathered during our consultation period, we are delighted to be able to submit our full planning application to Salford City Council.
“We have provided over 5,000 young people in the area with somewhere to go, something positive to do and someone trusted to talk too.
“I know that Gorton now has a bright future, full of opportunities for its young people. This is a very exciting milestone for all the project partners involved and, most importantly, for the young people of Salford.”
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “Having personally seen the success of HideOut Youth Zone and the incredible impact on young people in the area, I believe Salford Youth Zone will be a vital asset.
"It is a much-needed facility in our city. This planning application submission, should it be approved, is the start of what I’m sure will be a great investment in the future of Salford.”
Betfred founder, Salford City Council member and Salford-born industrialist, Fred Done, is expected to contribute to the capital and revenue costs. Mr Done has previously donated about £6million to HideOut Youth Zone in Gorton.
He said: "The Youth Zone will provide opportunities for thousands of young people and I’m delighted to be part of such a life-changing project.
“Manchester is a city close to my heart and is full of bright and talented young people who need somewhere safe and affordable to go, a place where they can discover their talents and develop their skills to achieve their full potential."
Read next:
