Newcastle Upon Tyne's newest community centre is something other major cities could benefit from says TV presenter Anthony McPartland.
| It gives a focal point for the youth to come and do something, rather than hanging around on street corners. |
"It's fantastic" said the star, better known as one half of the duo Ant & Dec, who together recently opened the £1.3 million Galafield Project on Newcastle's Newbiggen Hall estate.
Designed after extensive consultation with young people, their parents and local residents, the centre already enjoys wide community support, judging by the many positive reactions we received from both young and old.
"It gives a focal point for the youth to come and do something, rather than hanging around on street corners, kicking a football around or just walking around with friends aimlessly", said community beat manager, PC Anthony Sharp.
Open to five to 25 year olds with full access for physically disabled users, it boasts a radio station, an arts and craft room equipped with kiln, an IT suite, cafe area, creche, multi-purpose hall, changing rooms, sports pitches and courts as well as information and counselling services.
It was funded through Single Regeneration Budget money.
About the team
This article was produced by Lyndsey Smeaton, 11, Sheree Pearson, 12, Shellie Lockyer and Leighann Smeaton, 9, and Lianne Liddle, 13. It was published in New Start magazine.
