AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL

MEDIA RELEASE

8 November 2006

New youth space for Wesley

Auckland City’s Community Development and Equity Committee today announced plans to build a tailor-made youth facility in Wesley.

A provisional budget of $2 million has been approved for the construction and on going operation of the youth space.

The plans also include funding an extensive programme of youth activities to take place after-school, at weekends and during the holidays.

The announcement forms part of the council’s plans to spend $25 million over the next 10 years to improve community facilities across the city.

Councillor Cathy Casey, Community Development and Equity Committee chairperson, says the council plans to establish a youth reference group to give input into the design of the space.

“We really want to make sure that we are hitting the mark with the facilities we provide and young people will be able to shape the plans to ensure our building, and the services within it, are relevant and effective to the community. Looking at it through young eyes also helps us to understand what will appeal and be well-used by youth.”

“The youth space will provide wide-spread benefits to the Wesley community and create a safe and engaging space for young people to learn, have fun and express themselves,” she said.

Extensive research with key stakeholders in the Wesley community supports the need for a safe, interactive, space for young people in the area.

The space could potentially include areas for sports, physical activities, and a programme of arts and technology based projects.

Planning is still in the development stages and construction could be completed by October 2008.

Funding for this project has been made available through the Community Development and Housing targeted rate.

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