With the Town Council's plans for the New Youth Centre in Eldon Way, Wick, winning planning approval last Autumn, and despite a very soggy start to the year, construction work at the new site is underway. 

Part of a partnership project by Littlehampton Town Council and Arun District Council to improve community facilities by replacing the existing Keystone Centre with a modern and versatile building, the new centre will be located opposite the existing building. The new facility will also include a modern outdoor recreation area.

Due to take around 35 weeks to complete, for reasons of safety the Eldon Way Recreation Area won't be accessible to the public during construction. The existing Keystone Centre will, however, continue to operate as usual.

Chair of the Town Council’s Community Centres Sub-committee, Councillor Freddie Tandy, said: “It is pleasing to finally see the construction underway after years of delays caused by the pandemic. All partners are confident that the £1.5m Centre will offer much needed community facilities as indicated during our engagement events at the start of this venture. Having a high-quality purpose-built centre will enhance young people’s lives and provide them with a safe space to have positive experiences.”

Chair of Arun District Council, Councillor Samantha-Jayne Staniforth, added: “It is amazing to see the site that will become the new Keystone Centre. It will be a brand new, much needed community space, with halls and spaces for young people to be, as well as a multi-use games area. It will be a great asset to our local communities. Arun District Council are excited to be putting £250,000 towards this project, which has been many years in the making. With a completed build date of Autumn this year, it is also a great example of working together in partnership with Littlehampton Town Council for our local residents.”

The design and build contract was awarded to Portsmouth based construction company, Mountjoy. To view the Centre’s Masterplan please visit the Town Council’s website and if anyone wishing to make enquiries during the construction phase should email the contractors at k2@mountjoy.co.uk.