Youth collaborate on design for new waterfront facility

Young individuals have collaborated with architectural professionals to conceive the layout for their preferred new facility situated by the water, intended to function as their central support point. The youth charity 4YP presently occupies premises on Lower Brook Street in Ipswich. Subsequent to consultations with the young individuals it serves, proposals have been formulated to relocate to a vacant property at Regatta Quay. Gavin Stone, the chief executive of the charity, stated: “A couple of years ago, young people said to me we will probably need something a little different… a bit more fit-for-purpose.” He continued, “So we handed it over to an organisation called Make Architects who have been working with young people for the last two years, and who have come up with all of the designs.” Reece, aged 17, has participated in groups organized by 4YP for a duration of five years. He remarked: “There was an opportunity to go and make more friends, do more in the afternoons and evenings instead of just being bored after school.” Reece contributed to the creation of the designs for the forthcoming facility. Kiara, 15 years old, also attends these groups and expressed that they aided her personal growth. She commented: “I do clubs after school, which is Walk and Talk and Girls Group.” She added: “We do baking, we’ve gone on walks, we are going to the panto – so many opportunities.” Kiara further stated: “I’m more confident speaking in front of other people, and in my mental health.” The organization is investigating potential funding avenues to actualize these proposals, maintaining an optimistic outlook. Mr Stone further elaborated: “4YP are seeking to respond to the mandate young people have provided by working with others to evolve a vacant waterfront premises into a flagship youth centre, as part of the wider regeneration of Ipswich town centre.” He explained that the capacity to construct buildings incorporating outdoor areas was restricted within the town centre proper, but relocating a short distance south to the waterfront would enable them to offer “a more positive and aspirational vista.” For updates on Suffolk news, follow BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.