This week marked a momentous occasion as we welcomed guests, supporters and local leaders to celebrate the groundbreaking ceremony, marking the commencement of the all-new Salford Youth Zone.
Set to open its doors in summer 2025, this state-of-the-art facility will usher in a new era for the youth of our city as well as enhancing the broader community through mentoring schemes, job creation, and volunteering opportunities.
The ceremony, attended by local leaders, supporters, and notable figures, began with speeches from Empower Youth Zones CEO Adam Farricker, who emphasised the transformative impact of the project.
Adam reflected:
“Salford is definitely a city on the up, the economy continues to grow everyday and its increasingly starting to become one of the leading cities in the UK, to live, to work, to study or to visit.
But it’s safe to say, like all cities, it still has its issues, particularly when it comes to statistics relating to children and young people in the city centre, poverty rates and all the social economic inequalities that come with that.
We are all here today because we already know what the needs are the issues facing children and young people. If you didn’t you wouldn’t be here supporting us or have an interest in this project or its future…”
Among the guests were representatives from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, a ministerial department (DCMS), Councillor Teresa Pepper, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Mrs. Susan Lomas OBE DL, and City Mayor Paul Dennett, who delivered an inspiring address about the project’s potential to shape the future of Salford’s youth.
Members of our Young People Development Group (YPDG) a group already instrumental in pivotal decisions surrounding the identity of the SYZ, also spoke, offering their insight and updating guests on their contributions.
Guests explored the site, learning about the architectural plans and the array of activities set to be offered. Local artist Pete Obsolete, famous for his time capsule style canvases, engaged attendees in creating a commemorative mural, turning words and doodles of inspiration into a mural, capturing the event’s spirit. The event was catered by the renowned Hip Hop Chip Shop, adding a local flavour to the celebrations before guests were given the opportunity to network.
Situated on Belvedere Road, the Salford Youth Zone will feature cutting-edge amenities, including a film and recording studio, a 3G sports pitch, a fitness suite, and an enterprise and employability suite. With over 20 activities available per session, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year, this facility is designed to meet the diverse needs and interests of our young people.
As we laid the first bricks, we were reminded that true progress is a collective effort. This Youth Zone represents a beacon of hope and possibility for generations to come, and we are immensely proud to be a part of this journey. Together, we are building a brighter future for Salford.
We’ve put together the best moments from the event in the video below, featuring an inspiring speech from Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennet, as he passionately shares his excitement for the SYZ.
At Empower Youth Zones, patronage is more than just a financial contribution; it’s an investment in the future of our young people and our community. The support from patrons are crucial for sustaining our operations and expanding our reach, ensuring we can continue to make a meaningful difference to the lives of young people in Manchester.
If you or your organisation would like to support us through patronage or any other funding initiatives, please contact us at amanda.coverdale@salfordyouthzone.org. Your support can help us empower the next generation and build a brighter future for our city.
For more information, please visit www.empoweryouthzones.org.
For any additional information on Salford Youth Zone or any media enquiries, please email comms@salfordyouthzone.org.
