The Youth Zone, funded by the council and other key partners, is expected to open its doors in the coming months. Based in the heart of the town centre close to the bus interchange and Warrington Central train station, the Youth Zone contains a range of first-class facilities that will support enterprise and employability, leisure and recreation, and the health and wellbeing of Warrington’s young people.

The pioneering scheme means that young people aged 7-19, and up to 25 years old for those with additional needs, can gain entry seven days a week, for just 50p per visit, with an on-site café also serving hot meals from £1.

Cabinet member for children’s services, Cllr Sarah Hall, said: “It’s hard not to feel proud and incredibly excited about the Youth Zone and how it will help to support and indeed transform the lives of our young people.

“Whether you want to start a band, play a sport, learn to cook, develop your skills to get into employment or if you just want somewhere to meet with friends, there is truly something available for everyone at Warrington Youth Zone.

“It has been a long time coming and I’m delighted this project is finally coming to fruition. I’d like to thank the council’s previous children’s services cabinet member, Jean Carter, for her unwavering belief in the Youth Zone so that the dream of this facility could become a reality.

“It’s a shame I’m just a couple of years too old to join the Youth Zone! It’s a simply outstanding place that will support many thousands of young people to play, relax, learn and discover. I’m very pleased that the council has put its faith in Warrington’s young people by supporting and investing in the development of this wonderful new space.”

Warrington Borough Council’s director of education, early help and SEND services, Paula Worthington, said: “It was great to take a tour of the Youth Zone and I’m very excited to see the building open its doors very soon.

“We look forward to working alongside the team at the Youth Zone to make sure we keep developing first-class support and facilities for our young people. Some council services will start to be delivered from the Youth Zone once it opens and it is clear that it will be an environment where our young people will thrive.”

Dave McNicholl, Chief Executive at Warrington Youth Zone, said: “After many years of planning and fundraising it is incredible to see Warrington Youth Zone here and ready to support the children and young people of the borough.

“We are currently setting up the building and equipment and recruiting our team members ready to welcome people in the summer. Without the support of Warrington Borough Council and many members of the local business community there is no way that this amazing facility would have become a reality and we would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who has worked so hard to make the vision of Warrington Youth Zone happen.”

You can find out more about Warrington’s Youth Zone by visiting warringtonyouthzone.org