New youth centre confirmed for Witterings

The parish council confirmed a new youth centre will be built at Downview Park, meaning clubs that could have become homeless can move from the worn-out building at Church Road.

The facility will have a multi-purpose sports hall, full kitchen facilities and a large community area.

The announcement comes after the parish council expressed concerns as part of the planning application at the end of last year that the current building was ‘inadequate and sub-standard’ and the youth groups would ‘become homeless’.

Parish clerk Joyce Griffith said: “After many years of discussion since West Sussex County Council announced the closure of many of the youth clubs, the parish council has worked together with F G Woodger Trust to try to find a way of keeping the youth facility open.

“We are delighted to announce the new ​ building has now been approved.”

Youth club chairman Jacqui Manuel said: “We are very excited about the new youth centre building as we have been meeting in the old dilapidated building site for many years.

“The children are very excited about the new building and having the opportunity at Downview to play the outdoor games.”